In a moment of groundbreaking political transformation, Zohran Mamdani stepped into the spotlight just after midnight, becoming New York City's most historic mayoral figure in generations.

Sworn in during a private ceremony at the architecturally stunning old City Hall subway station, Mamdani made history as the first Muslim to lead America's largest metropolis, placing his hand on a Quran while taking his oath of office administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James.

At just 34 years old, Mamdani represents a powerful mosaic of modern American leadership - the youngest mayor in decades, a leader of South Asian descent, born in Africa, and now steering one of the world's most complex urban landscapes.

During his brief inaugural address, Mamdani radiated humility and vision, describing his new role as "truly the honour and the privilege of a lifetime." He strategically chose the decommissioned subway station as a symbolic backdrop, highlighting public transit's crucial role in the city's vitality and announcing Mike Flynn as his new Department of Transportation commissioner.

The mayor's journey doesn't end with this intimate midnight ceremony. A more elaborate public inauguration is scheduled for 1pm at City Hall, followed by a celebratory parade along Broadway's famous "Canyon of Heroes" - a traditional ticker-tape route reserved for momentous urban achievements.

As Mamdani smiled and ascended the station's stairs, concluding his initial remarks with a simple "Thank you all so much, now I will see you later," he embodied a new era of inclusive, dynamic municipal leadership that reflects New York City's rich, diverse tapestry.