SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Diya TV) — Diwali, the widely celebrated Festival of Lights, is one step closer to becoming an official state holiday in California following the unanimous, bipartisan passage of Assembly Bill 268 (AB 268) on the Assembly floor. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Ash Kalra and co-led by Assemblymember Darshana Patel—the first two Hindu Americans in the state legislature—aims to formally recognize Diwali in California’s holiday calendar.
AB 268 received strong support from lawmakers across the aisle and widespread enthusiasm from community members, who see the bill as a milestone for cultural representation and inclusivity. “It’s a great win for our community,” said Kalra in a public statement, “honoring the values of light that Diwali represents.” He also emphasized the importance of visibility for Indian Americans, noting that California is home to the largest Indian American population in the U.S.
Diwali, which symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, is observed by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains worldwide. In California, the festival has grown in prominence as Indian American and South Asian communities continue to expand. If enacted, AB 268 would allow public schools to close in observance of Diwali and permit state employees to use the holiday as a personal day off.
The bill mirrors efforts in other states like New York and Pennsylvania, both of which have already recognized Diwali in their public holiday calendars. The momentum for AB 268 has been building since a key Assembly Governmental Organization Committee meeting on April 2, 2025, where the bill was first introduced. Although a quorum wasn’t present to vote at the time, the committee discussion was described as a meaningful step toward inclusion, with no formal opposition voiced.
During the hearing, both Assemblymembers Kalra and Patel spoke passionately about the personal and communal significance of Diwali. Patel highlighted how the recognition of the holiday would validate the contributions of Hindu Americans and affirm the state’s commitment to embracing cultural diversity. “When we see our holidays recognized, it’s not just symbolic,” said Patel. “It’s a message that our experiences and heritage matter.”
Community testimony added emotional weight to the legislation. Advocates, including students and young professionals, shared how taking time off to celebrate Diwali often meant sacrificing school or work obligations. They expressed how official recognition would not only ease those conflicts but also foster a deeper sense of belonging.
The bill’s backers argue that recognizing Diwali aligns with California’s progressive values and multicultural identity. Supporters hope that with continued momentum in the State Senate, the bill will become law by the end of the legislative session.
