India, Jan. 2 -- When Zohran Kwame Mamdani took his oath as the 112th mayor of New York on New Year's Eve, it wasn't just a political milestone - it was a moment of quiet cultural pride. Known for his wit and Bollywood references, Mamdani has become a symbol of a new kind of South Asian representation on the global stage.

This is the politician who once used Deewar (1975) dialogues to explain policy, played Dhoom Machale at his victory speech, and even got NYC bobbing their heads to Gaddi Red Challenger. But as he stepped into office beneath the glittering lights of Times Square, Mamdani chose to make another statement, one stitched in silk.

For his swearing-in ceremony, Mamdani wore a dark grey herringbone tie crafted from eri silk - a...