Diwali will now be a holiday in the US, with California becoming the first state to do so; a new law has been passed.

News Topical, Digital Desk : The festival of Diwali holds special significance in India. Preparations for the festival begin many days in advance. Now, Diwali is celebrated not only in India but also in many countries around the world.

In this context, the US state of California has decided to declare Diwali a public holiday. In this regard, state Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new bill on October 6th, recognizing Diwali as an official holiday in the state.

California schools to remain closed on Diwali

This law, enacted in California, allows public schools and community colleges to remain closed for Diwali, with employees receiving paid leave during this time.

The bill was co-sponsored by Assembly members Darshan Patel and Ace Kalra and supported by advocacy groups such as the Hindu Coalition of North America. Under AB-268, schools and colleges can choose to remain closed on Diwali. State employees can also take leave to celebrate Diwali.

Ash Kalra thanks the Governor of California

It's worth noting that Assembly Judiciary Committee Chairman Ash Kalra celebrated Newsom's approval of the Diwali bill and several other bills he authored on social media. Highlighting this progress, Kalra said his bills became law within days.

He wrote on the social media platform X, "Since Friday, the Governor has signed nine of my bills. A huge thank you to Governor Gavin Newsom and my Capitol and Judiciary Committee staff who worked tirelessly all year on these important policies, which have now become state law! And many more to come!"

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