Mayor Mamdani Celebrates Palm Sunday, Holi, and Takes Jabs at Annual 'Inner Circle' Roast

Mamdani marks religious holidays, responds to 'No Kings' protest, and participates in political satire show in first 100 days as New York City mayor.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:40pm

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In his first 100 days as mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani celebrated the Christian holiday of Palm Sunday and the Hindu festival of Holi, oversaw the city's response to a large anti-Trump protest, and took part in the annual 'Inner Circle' political roast show, where he poked fun at reporters and politicians.

Why it matters

Mamdani's participation in religious and civic events during his early days in office demonstrates his efforts to engage with diverse communities across New York City. The 'Inner Circle' show also highlights the mayor's willingness to embrace political satire and maintain a sense of humor, even as he faces scrutiny from the media and opposition.

The details

On Palm Sunday, Mamdani delivered remarks at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral in Queens, discussing his affordability agenda and the need to address the city's high cost of living. He later joined the Phagwah (Holi) Parade in Queens, celebrating the Hindu festival of color and spring. The mayor also participated in the annual 'Inner Circle' show, a political roast organized by the New York City press corps, where he poked fun at reporters and politicians, including former mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa.

  • On March 28-29, Mamdani celebrated Palm Sunday and Holi, marking the 87th and 88th days of his term as mayor.
  • Mamdani took part in the 'Inner Circle' show on Saturday night.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The current mayor of New York City, who was elected in 2025 on a progressive, democratic socialist platform.

Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York

A prominent church in the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, where Mamdani delivered remarks on Palm Sunday.

Curtis Sliwa

A former Republican candidate for mayor of New York City, who made a special appearance in a pre-recorded skit for the 'Inner Circle' show.

Jeff Coltin

The City & State editor who played the starring role of Mamdani in the 'Inner Circle' show.

Letitia James

The New York Attorney General, who was a target of protests against President Trump.

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What they’re saying

“Deliverance does not always have to arrive on a donkey, riding past the mount of olives. Sometimes it arrives from the people themselves.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

“There is no other room of Andrew Cuomo voters where I'd rather be.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

What’s next

The mayor's office has not announced any specific next steps related to the events covered in this story. However, Mamdani's continued engagement with diverse communities and his willingness to participate in political satire suggest he will likely continue to strike a balance between serious governance and public outreach in the coming months.

The takeaway

Mayor Mamdani's first 100 days in office have been marked by his efforts to connect with New Yorkers from all backgrounds, whether through religious celebrations, protest responses, or political roasts. This multifaceted approach reflects his desire to be a mayor for all of the city's residents, even as he faces scrutiny and opposition.