New York City, NY, USA: Indian American actor Kal Penn, who earlier worked in the Obama administration as a liaison to Asian American and arts communities, has been selected as an honorary host for New York City mayor elect Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration.
Penn has been included in the 48 member inaugural committee formed for the transition of Zohran Mamdani, who will officially take office at the start of the new year.
He will serve as an honorary host during the January 1, 2026, oath taking ceremony as well as a public block party scheduled to take place at City Hall.
The committee is made up of artists, activists, organizers, and cultural leaders who will assist in planning and hosting the celebration, titled Inauguration of a New Era. Media reports indicate that committee members will act as official hosts throughout the events commemorating Mamdani’s election win.
Born Kalpen Suresh Modi, Kal Penn is an Indian American actor and writer of Gujarati Indian heritage. He is widely recognized for his performances in the Harold and Kumar film franchise, the television series House, and Designated Survivor.
In addition to his acting career, Penn previously served in the White House during the Obama administration, where he worked as a liaison for Asian American and arts communities. He has also been active in Democratic Party political campaigns.
Activist Sherry Padilla, associated with Desis Rising Up and Moving and of Indo Caribbean background, has also been appointed to the committee, strengthening representation from New York’s Desi population.
Other notable members include Cynthia Nixon, John Turturro, Luis Guzman, Ms. Rachel, author Colson Whitehead, and comedian The Kid Mero. Mamdani stated that the group represents “the full life of the city,” adding that New York’s artists, thinkers, organizers, and activists have helped define the city’s identity and spirit.
The inauguration will start with a private midnight oath ceremony administered by Letitia James, followed by a public event led by Bernie Sanders and a large scale block party expected to attract thousands of attendees.
