In a momentous announcement for the Indian diaspora, California has officially added Deepavali to its list of state holidays. This makes California the third state in the United States to formally recognize the joyous Indian festival of lights.
California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, that he had signed the Bill, ‘AB 268’, proposed by Assembly member Ash Kalra, making Deepavali an official state holiday.
The legislation had previously sailed through both houses of California’s legislature in September, awaiting final approval from Governor Newsom.
Assembly member Kalra highlighted last month that California is home to the largest Indian American population in the country. He emphasized that establishing Deepavali as a state holiday would amplify its message to the hundreds of thousands of Californians who celebrate it, while also introducing its essence to the state’s incredibly diverse populace.
Kalra articulated that Deepavali serves as a powerful symbol, uniting communities through themes of goodwill, peace, and renewal. He asserted that California ought to embrace this diversity and allow Deepavali to shine brightly, rather than remain unacknowledged.
Prior to California’s decision, Pennsylvania led the way in October 2024 by officially recognizing Deepavali as a state holiday, with Connecticut following suit this year. New York City has also declared Deepavali a holiday for its public schools.
The announcement from California was met with widespread enthusiasm from community leaders and prominent Indian diaspora organizations.
Indiaspora, a non-profit organization, lauded California’s official recognition of Deepavali, noting that as the nation’s most populous state, this decision represents a “major milestone in the ongoing journey toward greater cultural inclusion and visibility” for Indian Americans. They added that this acknowledgment highlights not just the brilliance of Diwali, but also the enduring positive impact of the Indian American community across the United States.
M.R. Rangaswami, Founder and Chairman of Indiaspora, issued a statement declaring the historic decision a tribute to the generations of Indian Americans who have played a crucial role in California’s development and success.
“Governor Newsom’s leadership embodies the inclusive spirit our nation needs today. Recognizing Deepavali as a state holiday truly affirms that diversity is our strength,” Rangaswami stated, extending his congratulations to Assembly member Kalra and Dr. Darshana Patel, who co-authored the bill.
Indiaspora further celebrated the “landmark legislation” as a “historic moment” for Indian Americans, particularly those residing in California, calling it a “powerful recognition of the community’s rich cultural heritage and longstanding contributions to the Golden State.”
The organization underscored that for the more than one million Indian Americans in California, this is a moment of profound pride and joy. “Indian Americans have been instrumental in shaping California’s vibrant and diverse landscape—contributing to the economy, serving in government, enriching the arts, sciences, and civic life, and uplifting communities across the state,” Indiaspora noted, emphasizing that California has, in turn, embraced the community wholeheartedly.
The declaration of Deepavali as a state holiday, Indiaspora concluded, reinforces that Indian Americans are not merely participants in California’s narrative, but are deeply woven into the very fabric of its identity.
Indiaspora also recalled New York City’s “groundbreaking” decision to mandate public school closures for Deepavali, with November 1, 2024, marking the first time schools were officially closed for the festival. Several school districts across New York State, beyond New York City, are also set to observe Deepavali as an official holiday.
Ajay Bhutoria, a notable Silicon Valley entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former advisor to President Joe Biden, described the announcement as a “radiant milestone” in California’s pursuit of genuine inclusivity and cultural celebration.
“Diwali, our treasured Festival of Lights, symbolizes the eternal triumph of hope over adversity, unity over division, and wisdom over ignorance—a profound message that deeply resonates with the nearly one million South Asians who call California home and are vital to its innovation, economy, and spirit,” Mr. Bhutoria remarked.
He added that this recognition transcends a mere holiday. “It is a powerful affirmation of the Indian diaspora’s enduring legacy in the Golden State. From tech pioneers in Silicon Valley to healthcare heroes in Southern California, our community has intricately woven threads of resilience and diversity into the tapestry of American excellence,” Bhutoria further elaborated.
“By providing state employees with paid time off and empowering schools to observe this sacred day, the legislation ensures that families can fully immerse themselves in cherished traditions like lighting Diyas, creating Rangoli, and sharing tales of renewal—free from the demands of work or deadlines,” he affirmed.
Mr. Bhutoria extended his sincere gratitude to Governor Newsom, Mr. Kalra, and Mr. Patel, concluding, “Your tireless advocacy has not only brought light to Deepavali for generations to come but has also inspired a nation to celebrate our shared brilliance.”