Watch: Zohran Mamdani Uses Ramiz Raja Quote, Wins Internet
A video of newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has gone viral after he quoted former Pakistan cricketer Ramiz Raja during his campaign speech.
In the widely shared clip, Mamdani can be seen addressing a charged rally, saying, “In the words of Ramiz Raja: the ability to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.”
The comment, delivered with a smile, drew laughter and applause from the enthusiastic crowd gathered to support the then–mayoral candidate.
Mamdani used the cricket reference to remind his supporters not to become complacent and to continue their efforts until every vote was cast.
The moment quickly caught fire online, as users across South Asia and beyond praised his clever use of a cricket metaphor to energize voters.
Meanwhile, the former Pakistani cricketer also shared the clip on his social media handle and congratulated the newly elected mayor.
The viral episode came only days before his decisive victory in the mayoral election, where he defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo by nine percentage points.
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According to official results, Mamdani received 1,033,471 votes compared with Cuomo’s 852,032, while Republican Curtis Sliwa secured nearly seven percent.
The triumph of Mamdani has rewritten the political history of New York, as he becomes the first Muslim, South Asian, and African-born mayor to lead the city.
“Tonight, against all odds, we have grasped it. The future is in our hands,” the 34-year-old told cheering supporters on election night.
Calling his success “a mandate for change,” Mamdani pledged to build a fairer, more affordable, and inclusive New York for all residents.
“This city must be one that everyone can afford to call home,” he said, addressing supporters waving yellow campaign signs and wearing bright beanies.
