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| During the Diwali celebration, people light rows of clay oil lamps (diyas) to celebrate the inner light and guard against spiritual darkness. |
California Governor Gavin Newsom just signed a bill, AB 268, making Diwali a statewide holiday. The bill got signed on Oct. 6 and it goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2026. This is a big deal, folks.
California is the third state to declare Diwali a state holiday, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Some other states, like New York and New Jersey, have specific school districts that observe Diwali as a holiday, and Texas also recognizes it.
Next year, state employees have the option to get a paid day off, and public schools and community colleges can choose to close down. Think about that for a second. For the next generation, South Asian American kids won't have to choose between going to school and celebrating with their families. They can proudly share their traditions with everyone, and that's a beautiful thing.
For years, many members the Indian American and broader South Asian community have been celebrating Diwali as best they could. Family and friends gathered together for a party, light some diyas, and make some rangoli, but it was all done after work or on the weekend. It was a cultural and spiritual celebration that was isolated from the rest of their lives at school or work. But not anymore.
Indian American Assemblymembers Ash Kalra (San Jose) and Dr. Darshana Patel (San Diego) co-authored this bill, and it’s a testament to the fact thatSouth Asian voices matter and that they're a recognized part of California's vibrant tapestry.
"Diwali brings communities together with the message of goodwill, peace, and shared sense of renewal. California should embrace Diwali and its diversity, not keep it hidden in darkness," said Kaira.
California is the third state to declare Diwali a state holiday, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Some other states, like New York and New Jersey, have specific school districts that observe Diwali as a holiday, and Texas also recognizes it.
While Diwali is a major Hindu festival, the legislation acknowledges that it is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.
According to a 2025 Pew survey, 960,000 out of the nation's Indian population of 4.9 million — or 20% — live in California.
According to a 2025 Pew survey, 960,000 out of the nation's Indian population of 4.9 million — or 20% — live in California.
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Light, will be celebrated Oct. 20 this year.
Next year, state employees have the option to get a paid day off, and public schools and community colleges can choose to close down. Think about that for a second. For the next generation, South Asian American kids won't have to choose between going to school and celebrating with their families. They can proudly share their traditions with everyone, and that's a beautiful thing.
This isn't just about a day off; it's a statement about our community's place in the Golden State, from Silicon Valley to Sacramento. This is about inclusivity, about recognizing hope over despair, and light over darkness. It's a win for all of us.
Lobbying for the bill was L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, whose supervisorial istrict includes Artesia, home to the “Little India” and also includes the city of Norwalk where Radha Krishna temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples west of the Mississippi River, is located.
“Diwali is significant for thousands of families across L.A. County, and I think it’s important for government to recognize that. I’m proud to have led our County in doing that for our Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities,” Hahn said in a press release. “And now more than ever, we can find comfort and hope in the defining message of Diwali: Light will triumph over darkness and good will triumph over evil.”
“Diwali is significant for thousands of families across L.A. County, and I think it’s important for government to recognize that. I’m proud to have led our County in doing that for our Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities,” Hahn said in a press release. “And now more than ever, we can find comfort and hope in the defining message of Diwali: Light will triumph over darkness and good will triumph over evil.”
EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge.
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