California Declares Diwali a State Holiday: A Historic Win for Indian Americans

In a historic and heartwarming move, California has officially declared Diwali a state holiday, becoming the third U.S. state to honor the Festival of Lights. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the much-anticipated bill into law on Tuesday, recognizing the festival’s deep cultural and spiritual importance for the state’s large Indian American community.

The bill, AB 268, was introduced by Assembly member Ash Kalra and successfully passed both houses of the state legislature in September before reaching the Governor’s desk. Diwali will now be celebrated as an official state holiday starting October 21.

“California is home to the largest population of Indian Americans,” Kalra said. “Designating Diwali as an official holiday will not only honor those who celebrate it but also introduce its message of light, hope, and renewal to many across our diverse state.”

He added that Diwali represents “goodwill, peace, and a shared sense of renewal — values California should proudly embrace, not keep hidden in darkness.”

A Growing Wave of Recognition Across the U.S.

California’s decision follows Pennsylvania and Connecticut, which became the first two states to officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday. In addition, New York City declared Diwali a public school holiday in 2024 — a landmark moment for cultural inclusion.

Community leaders and diaspora organizations have praised California’s move as a major milestone for Indian Americans, whose contributions to the state’s innovation, economy, and cultural fabric have been immense.

Nonprofit organization Indiaspora called the decision “a powerful recognition of the community’s rich heritage and contributions to the Golden State.”

“This recognition reflects not just the vibrancy of Diwali, but also the enduring impact of Indian Americans across the United States,” the group said in a statement.

Celebrating Diversity and Unity

Indiaspora Founder and Chairman MR Rangaswami hailed the legislation as a symbol of inclusivity:

“Governor Newsom’s leadership reflects the spirit of unity our nation needs today. Recognizing Diwali as a state holiday affirms that diversity is truly our strength.”

He also praised Assembly members Ash Kalra and Dr. Darshana Patel, co-authors of the bill, for their tireless advocacy.

“For the more than one million Indian Americans who call California home, this is a moment of immense pride and joy,” the statement added. “Declaring Diwali a state holiday affirms that Indian Americans are not just participants in California’s story — they are woven into its very fabric.”

A Radiant Milestone for Inclusion

Silicon Valley entrepreneur and philanthropist Ajay Bhutoria called the announcement “a radiant milestone” in California’s journey toward inclusivity.

“Diwali embodies the triumph of hope over despair, unity over division, and knowledge over ignorance — values that resonate deeply with California’s vibrant South Asian community,” Bhutoria said.

He emphasized that this recognition is more than just a day off — it’s an acknowledgment of the Indian diaspora’s enduring legacy in the Golden State.

“From tech innovators in Silicon Valley to healthcare heroes in Southern California, Indian Americans have woven resilience and diversity into the very fabric of American excellence,” he added.

Bhutoria also highlighted that the new law allows state employees paid time off and enables schools to observe Diwali, giving families the freedom to celebrate traditions like lighting diyas, creating rangolis, and sharing festive meals without workday worries.

“Your advocacy,” Bhutoria said in gratitude to Newsom, Kalra, and Patel, “has not only brightened Diwali for generations but also inspired an entire nation to celebrate our shared light.”