Rama Duwaji shared a simple yet powerful four-word statement on her Instagram this Election Day: “couldn’t possibly be prouder.” This heartfelt message came alongside a series of joyful images featuring her husband, Zohran Mamdani, who made headlines after clinching the Democratic nomination for New York City mayor, surprising both supporters and his opponent, former Governor Andrew Cuomo.
While the official final results are still pending due to a ranked choice voting process, Mamdani has gained significant attention as a progressive, self-described democratic socialist gearing up for a pivotal electoral match-up. In thanking his supporters, Mamdani expressed his gratitude to Duwaji, describing her as “my incredible wife.”
Duwaji, an accomplished animator and illustrator, has made her mark with notable collaborations involving prestigious organizations such as The New Yorker, The Washington Post, and the BBC. Her artwork often explores themes of sisterhood and community, and she also enjoys crafting ceramics, particularly charming illustrated plates.
A modern love story accompanies this political journey, as Duwaji and Mamdani first connected on the dating app Hinge. During a lighthearted interview, Mamdani joked about the success of their match, suggesting that hope still exists in the world of online dating.
Their wedding day photos reflect a life of love and resilience, showcasing moments from their intimate ceremony at the city clerk’s office — including candid shots taken on the bustling NYC subway. However, not all has been easy; the couple has faced online harassment since the campaign began. In a poignant statement, Mamdani emphasized the need to protect his loved ones from the harshness of political discourse, urging critics to focus on the issues rather than his family.
Duwaji’s beliefs as an artist resonate deeply with themes of activism. Reflecting on her role, she quoted Nina Simone, stressing the duty of artists to reflect societal realities and address injustices. She argues that while not every piece of art needs to be overtly political, the very act of creating art can be a form of political expression — a response to the world around us.
In a show of support, Duwaji’s mother-in-law, acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair, highlighted the transformative power of art in the city’s future, expressing hope that it will thrive in a new era.
This political narrative showcases the blend of love, art, and activism, with a promise of positive change ahead as Mamdani and Duwaji navigate their future in the public eye. Their story exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity, emphasizing the importance of love and support amidst the political landscape.