California Poised to Recognize Diwali as State Holiday
SACRAMENTO, CA – January 14, 2025 – California is on the verge of officially declaring Diwali a public holiday, a landmark decision recognizing the cultural significance of the Festival of Lights for the state’s large adn growing Hindu American community. Assembly Bill 268 (AB 268) has passed the legislature and is headed for engrossing and enrolling, the final steps before becoming law.
The bill’s passage marks a significant victory for advocates who have long sought state-level recognition of Diwali. The Hindu American Foundation, a leading voice in the effort, lauded the bill’s advancement, stating, “AB 268 (Diwali) has PASSED and is headed to engrossing & enrolling!” The group specifically acknowledged Assemblymembers Darshana Patel and Ash Kalra for their leadership in championing the legislation.
The new law will designate diwali as a state holiday observed on the 15th day of kartik in the Hindu lunar calendar. Beyond school closures, the legislation allows for the integration of Diwali-related cultural education into school programs, mirroring existing practices for observances like Native American Day and Genocide Remembrance Day.
Once finalized, Diwali will join Juneteenth, Cesar Chavez Day, and Lunar New Year as recognized state holidays, underscoring California’s commitment to acknowledging the diversity of its population. This decision reflects the growing influence and visibility of the Hindu American community within the state and nationwide.