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Kal Penn named honorary host for Mamdani's swearing-in ceremony
The Indian American actor has previously served in the Obama White House as a liaison to Asian American and arts communities.
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Anushka Pathak - Tue, 30, Dec 2025
- 13:40 EST
- 19
Actor Kal Penn / Courtesy: Wikipedia
Indian American actor Kal Penn has been added to the 48-member inaugural committee of New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.
Penn will serve as an honorary host for the Jan. 1, 2026, swearing-in ceremony and a public block party at City Hall.
The committee also includes artists, activists, organizers, and cultural figures who will help plan and host the event titled “Inauguration of a New Era.” According to some reports, the committee members will act as hosts during the celebrations marking Mamdani’s election victory.
Also Read: Mamdani to swear-in on New Year with a Block Party
Penn, born Kalpen Suresh Modi, is an Indian American actor and author of Gujarati Indian origin. He is known for roles in the 'Harold & Kumar' film series, 'House,' and 'Designated Survivor.'
He has also previously served in the Obama White House as a liaison to Asian American and arts communities and has participated in Democratic political campaigns.
Activist Sherry Padilla, affiliated with Desis Rising Up & Moving and of Indo-Caribbean origin, has also been named to the committee, adding representation from New York’s Desi communities.
Other committee members include Cynthia Nixon, John Turturro, Luis Guzman, Ms. Rachel, novelist Colson Whitehead, and comedian The Kid Mero. Mamdani said the group reflects “the full life of the city,” adding, “Our city's artists, thinkers, organizers, and activists have shaped what New York looks, sounds, and feels like.”
The inauguration will begin with a private midnight swearing-in officiated by Letitia James, the 67th Attorney General of New York State, followed by a public ceremony led by Bernie Sanders and a block party expected to draw thousands.
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