California’s Diwali state holiday: Hindu groups thank Gov Newsom.

California Lights Up with Diwali Joy: Governor Newsom Signs Bill into Law For Declaring Diwali as State Holiday. 

Snigdha Paul | HENB | California | Oct 8, 2025:: In a momentous occasion, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 268 into law, declaring Diwali, the Hindu “Festival of Lights,” an official statewide holiday. This landmark decision makes California the third state in the US to recognize Diwali as a state holiday, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut.

The bill was co-authored by Assembly members Ash Kalra and Darshana Patel, both of Indian descent. Kalra, who chairs the Assembly Judiciary Committee, said designating Diwali as an official state holiday will uplift its message to the hundreds of thousands of Californians who celebrate and help introduce it to many throughout the diverse state.

The new law will take effect on January 1, 2026, and permits state employees to elect to take the day off, while public school students will receive an excused absence to celebrate the holiday. Additionally, schools and colleges may choose to close for Diwali or host educational events explaining the significance and traditions of the festival.

The law acknowledges that Diwali is celebrated by not only Hindus but also Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, reflecting the diversity of the state’s population. With nearly one million people of Indian origin living in California, this move is seen as a significant moment for the Indian-American community.

The Masterminds Behind the Bill

Indian-origin assemblymembers Ash Kalra and Dr. Darshana Patel co-authored the bill, bringing people together in a celebration of cultural diversity. Their tireless efforts have paid off, and the Indian-American and Hindu communities are ecstatic.

– Ash Kalra: A Trailblazer
– First Indian-American and Hindu in California’s legislature
– Represents Assembly District 25 since 2016
– Chair of the Assembly Judiciary Committee
– Dedicated to committees on Housing, Local Government, and Natural Resources

– Dr. Darshana Patel: A Champion of Education
– Research scientist and school board president
– Daughter of Indian immigrants who moved to California when she was a teenager
– First Hindu woman to serve in the California State Legislature
– Serves as President of the San Diego County School Boards Association and on the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs

A New Era of Inclusion

The Indian-American and Hindu communities have welcomed this decision with open arms. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) praised Governor Newsom for recognizing this important festival and ushering in a new era of inclusion for Hindus in California. Ajay Bhutoria, former advisor to President Biden for AANHPI Commission, also thanked Governor Newsom for making Diwali a California state holiday.

The Indian American Advocacy Council also welcomed the declaration of Diwali as a statewide holiday, calling it a “proud moment for the Indian American community.” The Hindu American Foundation also expressed gratitude to Assembly members Ash Kalra and Dr. Darshana Patel, who co-authored the bill, for their role in making this happen.

A Step Towards Cultural Awareness

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) applauded the decision, calling it a “proud and historic milestone for Hindu Americans.” The group emphasized that this move showcases the importance of cultural awareness and civic engagement, enriching everyone.

As California celebrates this joyous occasion, the rest of the nation takes note. Will other states follow California’s lead and recognize the significance of Diwali? Only time will tell, but for now, the Golden State is shining bright with Diwali spirit.
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_Inputs from Agencies.