What was meant to be a formal political ceremony turned into an unexpected cultural moment, and the internet can’t stop talking about it.
Punjabi singer Babbu Beard, better known online as Babbulicious, became an unlikely star of the New York City mayoral inauguration on 1 January, after his performance brought colour, music and a strong sense of diaspora pride to the occasion.
As Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City’s mayor outside City Hall, Babbu Beard took to the stage and performed his viral Punjabi-English track Gaddi Red Challenger.
Videos showed Zohran Mamdani and his wife Rama Duwaji grinning and dancing to the lively, bhangra-inspired song, which immediately lifted the mood.
GOOD LIFE SAADI MUTIYAARE 🤣🤣😘😘😘 https://t.co/7NvV2jLJpa— Babbu Beard (@babbulicious) January 1, 2026
Videos of the event quickly went viral on social media, shocking viewers who had not anticipated a Punjabi pop performance at a mayoral ceremony.
Many people found the moment to be happy and revitalising. Gaddi Red Challenger is well-known for its light-hearted lyrics that blend Punjabi and English while capturing the humour and self-assurance of South Asian life overseas.
References to New York and everyday immigrant experiences drew loud cheers from the crowd, turning the inauguration into a celebration of multicultural identity.
Babbu Beard, who is also a comedian and designer, saw the performance as more than just a gig; it was a unique opportunity to be seen on a worldwide platform.
Born Babbu Singh, Babbu Beard is a familiar name within the Punjabi-Canadian music scene, particularly around the Brampton–Toronto area.
His rise has been driven largely by social media, where his music and comedic takes on diaspora life have resonated with young audiences.
Post the event, Babbu Beard took to social media to share moments with Zohran Mamdani and expressed gratitude to the mayor for the invite.
The post rapidly gathered a great number of likes and shares. Nonetheless, the widespread attention to the post also brought unpleasant aspects.
Some online users wrongly identified Babbu Beard as Muslim and used the performance to spread hateful and Islamophobic commentary.
One post on X read, “Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration in New York City has music that’s not even in English and Muslim men on stage that look like they’re in Afghanistan. Buckle up America. This is the Islamic takeover of America.” Many others were quick to call out the misinformation and condemn the hostility.
Despite the backlash, the moment has largely been remembered for its warmth and symbolism.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.
Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.
