California Makes History as Third US State to Recognize Diwali as Official Holiday

Community leaders have enthusiastically welcomed California's decision to officially designate Diwali as a state holiday.

In a landmark move for the Indian diaspora, California has officially recognized Diwali as a state holiday, making it the third US state to formally acknowledge the Indian festival of lights.

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Tuesday that he has signed legislation introduced by Assembly member Ash Kalra to establish Diwali as an official state holiday.

The bill, known as 'AB 268', successfully passed both chambers of California's legislature in September and had been awaiting the governor's final approval.

"California hosts the largest population of Indian Americans, and making Diwali an official state holiday will elevate its significance to the hundreds of thousands of Californians who celebrate it while introducing this important cultural tradition to our diverse population," Kalra had stated last month.

"Diwali unites communities through its message of goodwill, peace, and collective renewal. California should embrace Diwali and its diversity rather than keeping it in obscurity," he further remarked.

Pennsylvania became the first US state to officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday in October 2024, with Connecticut following suit this year. In New York City, Diwali has already been established as a holiday for public schools.

Community organizations and prominent diaspora groups have applauded California's announcement regarding Diwali's new status.

Indiaspora, a nonprofit organization, noted that with California—the most populous state in the nation—officially recognizing Diwali, "Indian Americans are celebrating a significant milestone in the ongoing journey toward greater cultural inclusion and visibility. This recognition reflects not only the vibrancy of Diwali but also the enduring impact of the Indian American community across the United States."

MR Rangaswami, Founder and Chairman of Indiaspora, stated that this historic decision honors generations of Indian Americans who have contributed to California's growth and prosperity. "Governor Newsom's leadership exemplifies the inclusive spirit our nation needs today. Recognizing Diwali as a state holiday confirms that diversity truly represents our strength," Rangaswami said while congratulating Kalra and Assembly member Dr. Darshana Patel, who co-authored the bill.

Describing the "landmark legislation" as a "historic" moment for Indian-Americans, particularly in California, Indiaspora called this a "powerful recognition of the community's rich cultural heritage and longstanding contributions to the Golden State." "For the more than one million Indian Americans who call California home, this represents a moment of immense pride and celebration. Indian Americans have been instrumental in shaping California's vibrant and diverse landscape—contributing to the economy, serving in government, enriching the arts, sciences, and civic life, and uplifting communities throughout the state," the organization stated, adding that California has embraced the community wholeheartedly. "Declaring Diwali a state holiday affirms that Indian Americans are not merely participants in California's narrative—they are interwoven into the very essence of its identity," the organization added.

Indiaspora highlighted that New York City took a "groundbreaking" initiative by requiring public school closures for Diwali, with November 1, 2024, marking the first official school closure for the festival. Several school districts across New York State, beyond New York City, will also observe Diwali as an official holiday.

Ajay Bhutoria, a prominent Silicon Valley entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former advisor to President Joe Biden, described the announcement as a "radiant milestone" in California's progression toward true inclusivity and cultural celebration. "Diwali, our cherished Festival of Lights, represents the eternal triumph of hope over adversity, unity over division, and knowledge over ignorance—a message that deeply resonates with nearly one million South Asians who call California home and contribute significantly to its innovation, economy, and spirit," Bhutoria stated.

He emphasized that this recognition transcends being merely a holiday. "It's a powerful affirmation of the Indian diaspora's lasting legacy in the Golden State. From technology pioneers in Silicon Valley to healthcare heroes in Southern California, our community has woven threads of resilience and diversity into the fabric of American excellence," Bhutoria added.

By providing state employees with paid time off and enabling schools to observe this sacred day, the legislation ensures families can fully embrace traditions such as lighting Diyas, creating Rangoli, and sharing stories of renewal—without the constraints of work or deadlines, he explained.

Bhutoria expressed gratitude to Newsom, Kalra, and Patel, saying, "Your advocacy has not only illuminated Diwali for generations but has also inspired a nation to celebrate our shared light."