‘Dhoom Machale‘ Dance Goes Viral: How Rajiv Mamdani Celebrated NYC Marathon Win
When Rajiv Mamdani crossed the finish line at the New York City Marathon, he didn’t just celebrate—he turned it into a Bollywood spectacle. The 32-year-old tech entrepreneur, who completed the race in 3 hours and 14 minutes, surprised everyone by breaking into an impromptu dance to Dhoom Machale from the 2004 hit movie Dhoom. The video, now viral with millions of views, isn’t just about the dance—it’s a story of perseverance, cultural pride, and identity.
From Casual Runner to Marathon Finisher
Mamdani, a New Jersey-based Indian-American, started running seriously during the pandemic lockdowns. What began as 5K jogs soon turned into half-marathons, and by 2023, he set his sights on the NYC Marathon—a dream for amateur athletes.
But training wasn’t easy. Juggling 60-hour workweeks with early-morning runs tested his limits. “I’d run at 4 a.m. just to fit it in,” he admitted. His secret weapon? Bollywood music, particularly Dhoom Machale, which kept him energized. “It’s fast, upbeat, and reminds me of home,” he shared.
The Viral Dance That Took Over the Internet
As Mamdani sprinted the final stretch in Central Park, he spotted his family cheering him on. “I had to do something epic,” he said—and so he did. A friend played Dhoom Machale, and Mamdani launched into a Bollywood-worthy performance, complete with slick moves that Hrithik Roshan would approve of.
The crowd went wild, phones recorded, and within hours, #DhoomMachaleMarathon trended on X (Twitter). The video resonated deeply, especially with the Indian diaspora, who called it “the representation we needed.” Even Dhoom director Siddharth Anand reposted it, writing, “This is how you make an entrance!”
Why This Moment Matters for Representation
Mamdani’s dance was more than just fun—it was a bold embrace of his Indian roots in a major American sporting event. “I wanted to honor my parents’ sacrifices,” he said.
His moment reflects a growing trend where athletes of color proudly showcase their culture in victory celebrations—from NFL players doing Gujarati garba to cricketers breaking into bhangra.
What’s Next for Rajiv Mamdani?
With newfound fame, Mamdani plans to promote diversity in running. “Marathons can feel intimidating for South Asians, but they shouldn’t,” he said. He’s partnering with nonprofits to launch free training programs for underserved communities.
His next goal? The Boston Marathon—with another dance, of course.
Watch the Viral Moment
Click here to see Mamdani’s iconic celebration—guaranteed to make you smile!
Final Thought: Rajiv Mamdani didn’t just run 26.2 miles—he sprinted into the spotlight, proving that victory is sweeter with a dash of Bollywood flair.
What’s your go-to workout anthem? Share in the comments!
