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Bollywood, chai and samosas feature in Ro Khanna’s endorsement of Aisha Farooqi for Congress
The California congressman discussed Bollywood, chai and South Asian identity while announcing his support for the Michigan congressional candidate.
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Malvika Choudhary - Wed, 01, Jul 2026
- 18:28 EDT
- 47
Ro Khanna and Aisha Farooqi / X/ Aisha Farooqi
Congressman Ro Khanna endorsed Pakistani American congressional candidate Aisha Farooqi’s bid in Michigan's 11th Congressional District.
The two democrats engaged in a lighthearted conversation centered on their shared South Asian heritage, Bollywood films, and favorite foods.
Also Read: India-US ties must stand for shared values: Ro Khanna
Farooqishared the exchange on social media, writing,"And now you got an Indian American endorsing a Pakistani American.”
"Only in America. That's what this country is about," Khanna replied, describing the endorsement as a reflection of the country's diversity. The exchange underscored growing political engagement among South Asian Americans across national backgrounds within the Democratic Party.
My name is Khan is one of my favorite movies! https://t.co/pJqB6o15uq
— Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) June 30, 2026
During the conversation, the two noted that they are both lawyers, Punjabis and South Asians before shifting the focus to Bollywood. "My Name Is Khan is one of my favorite movies. Have you seen it? It's a great movie," Khanna said, referring to the 2010 film starring Shah Rukh Khan.
Farooqi responded by naming Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge as her favorite, while Khanna said he had not seen the classic but would take her recommendation.
The pair also compared their favorite snacks and drinks, debating samosas and pakoras before agreeing on their shared appreciation for chai. Khanna added that he also enjoys mango lassi, prompting a playful exchange.
The conversation ended with the two discussing Hollywood versus Bollywood, basketball, and their home states of California and Michigan.
Farooqi's campaign for Michigan's open 11th Congressional District has drawn support from Khanna, one of the most prominent Indian American lawmakers in Congress.
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