USA (Commonwealth Union)_ In a landmark move that highlights California’s growing cultural diversity, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new bill making Diwali an official state holiday. Accordingly, the legislation, known as Assembly Bill 268, now allows public schools, community colleges, and state workers to take time off to observe the Festival of Lights. The bill was introduced by Assemblymember Ash Kalra, who made history himself as the first Indian American elected to the California State Legislature. For Kalra, the bill is more than just symbolic; it’s a celebration of the core values that Diwali represents: light over darkness, hope over despair, and the strength of community.
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Kalra shared his excitement on social media, posting, “It’s official! Governor Newsom has signed AB 268, making Diwali a recognized state holiday in California!” He thanked his staff, legislative colleagues, and the governor’s office for helping bring the bill across the finish line. “This isn’t just about adding another holiday to the calendar,” Kalra said. “It’s about honoring the meaning of Diwali: a time to reflect on inner light and unity and to celebrate renewal and resilience.”
Co-sponsored by Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel, the bill gained wide bipartisan support as it moved through the legislature. Under the new law, schools and colleges can close in observance of Diwali, and state employees can use it as a paid holiday. The bill gives communities across California the flexibility to celebrate without sacrificing work or school commitments. Supporters say the law reflects California’s continued commitment to honoring the cultural traditions of its diverse population. With nearly one million South Asians living in the state, the recognition of Diwali is both meaningful and long overdue.
The governor signed the bill in October, prompting celebrations in cities with large Indian American populations, including San Jose, Fremont, and Sacramento. Additionally, advocacy groups such as the Coalition of Hindus of North America praised the move, calling it a major step toward inclusion and cultural respect. The law also includes educational provisions. According to the Hindu American Foundation, the bill encourages California’s education officials to introduce classroom resources about Diwali. This would help students of all backgrounds learn about its historical and cultural significance, promoting awareness and understanding in schools.
Ajay Bhutoria, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur and former advisor to President Biden, welcomed the decision. “This is a proud day for Indian Americans in California,” he said. “Families can now observe Diwali together, lighting diyas, sharing meals, and celebrating traditions, without the burden of work or school getting in the way,” he added. Bhutoria emphasized that the new law does more than recognize a holiday. “It affirms the legacy and contributions of the Indian diaspora, from doctors and engineers to entrepreneurs, who have shaped California’s success story.”
Community leaders who campaigned for the bill are also celebrating the victory. Nishtha Raheja Goel, who leads Golden State Diwali, organized grassroots efforts to support the legislation. She said the bill’s passage reflects years of advocacy and community engagement. “We’ve been part of something historic,” she said. “Now the work continues to bring Diwali into schools, libraries, and public spaces.” Goel encouraged families and educators to keep the momentum going by organizing cultural events, workshops, and discussions about Diwali. “It’s about visibility,” she said. “When children see their traditions reflected in public life, it empowers them.”
Diwali, a five-day celebration observed by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrations include lighting oil lamps, decorating homes with rangoli, exchanging sweets, and offering prayers for peace and prosperity. California becomes the third state in the US to officially recognize Diwali, following similar decisions by Pennsylvania and Connecticut earlier this year. But it’s the first on the West Coast to do so, a significant milestone for the state with the nation’s largest Indian American population. According to a recent Pew survey, roughly 960,000 of the 4.9 million Indian Americans in the US live in California, nearly 20% of the total. With this legislation, California continues to show that its strength lies in its diversity and in recognizing the traditions that light the way forward for all.
