The California State Legislature has approved Assembly Bill 268, which would officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday. The bill, introduced by Assemblymember Ash Kalra and co-authored by Assemblymember Patel, now awaits final approval from Governor Gavin Newsom.
Kalra, the first Indian American elected to the California Legislature, expressed pride in the bill’s passage, highlighting its strong bipartisan backing. “California should embrace Diwali and its diversity, not keep it hidden in darkness,” Kalra said, noting that the state is home to one of the largest Indian American populations in the U.S.
He described Diwali as a time of “goodwill, peace, and renewal” that unites communities through its message of light overcoming darkness. The festival, widely celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains, symbolizes hope, prosperity, and spiritual reflection.
Assemblymember Patel, a joint author of the bill, added that California is poised to become the first West Coast state to officially recognize Diwali, following Pennsylvania and Connecticut, which passed similar measures in 2023 and 2024 respectively. “AB 268 reflects California’s commitment to inclusivity and the cultural heritage of millions,” Patel said.
Under AB 268, Diwali would join the list of officially recognized state holidays, marking a significant moment for the South Asian diaspora in California. The move follows growing recognition of the festival across the U.S., with New York City schools already closing for Diwali as an official holiday.
Kalra, who represents California’s 25th Assembly District encompassing much of San José, was first elected in 2016 and now serves as Chair of the Judiciary Committee. His leadership on AB 268 is being hailed as a milestone for cultural inclusion in state policy.
