Zohran Mamdani’s Two-Part Wedding: A Private Elopement in NYC and a Lavish Celebration in Uganda

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife, artist Rama Duwaji, celebrated their marriage in two distinct acts — one intimate, the other extravagant — spanning two continents and reflecting both their personal values and public lives.

Their love story began on the dating app Hinge in 2021. After getting engaged in 2024, the couple chose to elope in February 2025, opting for a quiet, deeply personal ceremony at the New York City Clerk’s office. It wasn’t until May 12, after Mamdani’s victory in the mayoral election, that he shared photos of their winter wedding on Instagram.

The images, captured by photographer Kara McCurdy, show the couple posing across New York City in the cold months, radiating joy despite the chill. Duwaji wore a lace white gown just above the knee, often holding a bouquet, while Mamdani dressed in a white tunic-style shirt over dark pants — a subtle nod to his South Asian heritage.

In his post, Mamdani addressed online critics who had begun targeting his wife. “Rama isn’t just my wife,” he wrote. “She’s an incredible artist who deserves to be known on her own terms. You can critique my views, but not my family.”

The following day, McCurdy shared additional photos, offering a clearer look at the minimalist yet heartfelt details of their special day. But the celebration was far from over.

A Grand Celebration in Uganda

On July 20, Mamdani responded to xenophobic comments telling him to “go back to Uganda” with a sharp, ironic reply: he was going — to celebrate his wedding.

Days later, reports emerged of a lavish, multi-day event held at his parents’ private estate in Buziga Hill, just outside Kampala. The property, owned by his mother, acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair, and his father, Columbia University professor Mahmood Mamdani, sits on two lush acres with sweeping views of Lake Victoria.

Security was intense. Anonymous sources told the New York Post that masked guards from special forces units stood watch at three gates. A phone-jamming system was reportedly in place, and only invited guests — arriving in luxury cars and buses — were allowed in.

The estate was lit up with Christmas lights, and festivities lasted late into the night. Witnesses described military-style tents being dismantled after the party ended, with Mamdani’s personal security team taking over gate duties.

Despite the grandeur of the Ugandan celebration, Mamdani and Duwaji live modestly in a rent-stabilized apartment in Astoria, Queens. During his campaign, opponents questioned how he could afford such a lifestyle on a $140,000 salary while paying only $2,300 a month in rent. However, the apartment was secured years earlier when he earned just $47,000 as a housing counselor — before he even knew it was rent-stabilized.

In an interview, Mamdani said he never intended to stay there forever. When asked if he planned to move into Gracie Mansion — the official mayor’s residence since 1942 — he confirmed he would be leaving his current home.

The Artist Behind the Politician

While Mamdani rose to political fame, Duwaji continued building her career as an artist. She stood by him throughout the campaign, including his surprise Democratic primary win. Her Instagram following surged overnight, and her presence captivated the public.

But she didn’t just play the role of a political spouse. She kept working — illustrating for New York Magazine, attending Fashion Week, and contributing artwork to humanitarian causes, including a fundraiser for Sudan.

“She’s our modern-day Princess Diana,” said photographer Hasnain Bhatti in a New York Times interview. While her official role as First Lady of New York remains undefined, her influence is already reshaping what that position can be.

From a simple elopement in Manhattan to a heavily guarded, days-long celebration in Uganda, Mamdani and Duwaji’s wedding was more than a union — it was a statement.

A statement of love, heritage, defiance, and partnership.

And as they step into the spotlight together, one thing is clear: their journey has only just begun.