New York City, NY, USA: In a landmark move, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 268, officially designating Diwali as a state holiday, making California the third U.S. state to do so after Pennsylvania (2024) and Connecticut (2025).

The bill, authored by Assembly Member Ash Kalra and Dr Darshana Patel, passed both houses of the state legislature in September before receiving the governor’s approval.

Kalra said the recognition reflects California’s diversity and honours the large Indian-American community, emphasising Diwali’s message of light, peace, and renewal.

Indian diaspora groups, including Indiaspora, hailed the decision as a historic milestone for cultural inclusion. Founder M.R. Rangaswami praised the move as a tribute to Indian Americans’ contributions to the Golden State’s success.

Silicon Valley entrepreneur Ajay Bhutoria called the announcement a “radiant milestone,” saying it celebrates the Indian diaspora’s lasting legacy in California.

The new law allows state employees paid leave and gives schools the option to observe Diwali, enabling families to celebrate traditional rituals.

Diwali has also been recognised elsewhere — New York City will close public schools for the festival starting November 1, 2024, expanding national acknowledgement of the celebration.