California designates Diwali as state holiday

In a historic development for the Indian diaspora, California has designated Diwali as an official state holiday, becoming the third state in the US to officially recognise the Indian festival of lights as a holiday.

California Governor Gavin Newsom Tuesday announced that he has



signed a bill by Assembly member Ash Kalra designating Diwali as a state holiday.

In September, the bill titled ‘AB 268’to designate Diwali as an official state holiday had successfully passed both houses of the legislature in California and was awaiting final action by Newsom.