The rhetoric between Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani and his political opponents in the New York City mayoral election has recently escalated. Mamdani recently gave a speech to Muslim leaders outside a mosque in the Bronx, in which she shared that after 9/11, her aunt stopped riding the subway wearing a hijab because she felt a lack of safety.

Mamdani said this experience is common for many Muslims in New York and that he was advised to hide his religious identity if he entered politics. He stressed that every Muslim’s dream is to be given respect and equal status like any other New Yorker. After this statement, US Vice President J.D. Vance sarcastically said that, “According to Mamdani, the real victim of 9/11 was his aunt, who was just seen as bad by some people.” This statement became a topic of discussion in social media and media.

Opposition’s attack and allegations

Mamdani’s opponents are three main leaders: Curtis Sliwa (Republican), Andrew Cuomo (Independent) and Eric Adams (Democrat), who have abstained from the election this time. These leaders have accused Mamdani of having radical views, while the Democratic Party says that this is taking the form of Islamophobic rhetoric. Cuomo is accused of laughing at Mamdani’s insensitive comments on 9/11 in a radio show, although he later denied it. Mayor Adams said that New York should not be like Europe and asked to be cautious of Islamic extremism. Sliva described Mamdani as a supporter of “global jihad”.

Mamdani’s answer

Mamdani said that now they will not be afraid of their Muslim identity and will not make any changes in their religion, food or customs. He clarified that during his initial days in politics, he hid his identity so that people would not judge him only on the basis of his religion, but now he has decided to show himself in the light and fight openly for equal rights. He said, “I will not change my identity, nor my food, nor my beliefs. But I will no longer see myself in the shadow, I will find myself in the light.”

After this statement, the debate regarding the issue of Muslim identity and religious equality in the New York City Mayor elections has intensified. This issue could prove to be decisive for voters in this election contest as it highlights sensitive aspects of the city’s social and cultural diversity.

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Government Holidays: There are government holidays in all the countries of the world. But the question arises that which country has the maximum number of government holidays? Some countries give priority to long weekends while others give importance to religious rituals. The number of public holidays is based on cultural diversity, religious traditions and national festivals. Let us know which country has the maximum number of government holidays according to the latest data from World Population Review and Wikipedia.

Which country is on top?

India tops the global list in terms of government holidays. A total of 42 holidays including national, religious and regional festivals are celebrated here. Of these, 21 are central government holidays while the rest vary according to the state and territory. India officially recognizes three national holidays. Which includes Republic Day, Independence Day and Gandhi Jayanti. From Holi and Diwali to Eid and Christmas, there is always time to celebrate something or the other somewhere in India.

Nepal at second place

Nepal is in second place. 35 public holidays are celebrated here. The holidays of this country reflect its Hindu Buddhist heritage. Here big festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Holi, Women’s Day are part of the official calendar. Like India, Nepal also shows religious harmony very beautifully.

Iran and Myanmar

There are 26 official holidays in Iran and Myanmar. Public holidays in Iran are held on Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Adha, Nowruz and Ashura. Along with this, Myanmar also celebrates Buddhist festivals like Thingyan Water Festival and Buddhist fast along with caste and cultural programs.

Sri Lanka

25 government holidays are also celebrated in Sri Lanka. Most of the Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian festivals are celebrated here. Festivals like Vesak, Diwali and Christmas reflect the faith and traditions here.

cambodia

Cambodia has 24 official holidays and celebrates Buddhist and national festivals such as Khmer New Year and Independence Day. Cambodians are famous for celebrating with their families during these long holidays.

bangladesh

There are 22 official government holidays in Bangladesh. This includes Islamic, Hindu and national festivals such as Eid, Durga Puja and Independence Day. The calendar of this country also reflects the multi-religious culture like India.