India, Nov. 17 -- The Mamdani moment is saturated with symbolism: A young progressive American with Indian and African roots has victoriously asserted his social democratic politics in the world's financial capital. It is too early to tell if the election of Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York portends a larger, fundamental shift in American politics. However, it does afford an opportunity to get a glimpse of an exciting ideological churn in America.

In India, we have taken interest in Mamdani's victory because of his India connection. But we should take an interest in American politics regardless of an India angle because the profound battle for the country's soul is a once-in-a-lifetime story.

The defining feature of America's nationa...