The California State Assembly has passed HR 137 to recognize Diwali on November 8, 2026. The resolution honors the Festival of Lights and its cultural and spiritual meaning. It also encourages people across California to take part in Diwali celebrations. The resolution reflects the growing importance of Indian-American and South Asian communities across California.

HR 137 Recognizes the Significance of Diwali

HR 137 describes Diwali as a festival of great importance to Indian Americans and South Asian Americans. Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists celebrate Diwali in the United States and many other countries. Diwali, also known as Deepavali, means “a row of lights.” The festival brings families, friends and communities together. It represents hope, renewal, generosity, unity and joy.

During Diwali, people light candles, oil lamps and diyas in their homes. These lights represent hope overcoming darkness and goodness defeating evil. The festival also encourages people to overcome challenges, choose positivity and show kindness to others.

Why California Marked Diwali Before November

Assembly Member Darshana Patel said the Assembly wanted to recognize Diwali before the legislative session ended. Patel noted that Diwali will take place in November, when the Legislature will not be in session. By presenting the resolution in August, lawmakers formally recognized the festival before the legislative session closed.

She said the resolution recognizes the traditions of hope, renewal and community that are central to Diwali. Patel also extended wishes to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights in California and around the world.

Diwali Traditions Bring Communities Together

Diwali celebrations include many family and community traditions. People often clean and decorate their homes before the festival. Many families create colorful rangolis near their entrances, wear traditional clothing, prepare special meals and exchange sweets.

Communities also gather for music, dance, prayers and cultural programs. For many people, Diwali marks the beginning of a new year and a time for reflection. The California Diwali resolution highlights values such as truth, justice, duty, family, wisdom and kindness. It recognizes that these traditions help build stronger communities and connect generations.

California’s Official Diwali Holiday

The new Assembly resolution builds on California’s earlier recognition of Diwali as an official state holiday. The law added Diwali to California’s list of state holidays and took effect in 2026. Public schools and colleges can close for Diwali. State employees can take the day off, and students can take an excused absence to celebrate.

The law gave formal recognition to the growing number of Californians who celebrate Diwali and the cultural diversity they bring to the state.

A Meaningful Recognition for California’s Indian-American Community

California is home to one of the country’s largest Indian-American and South Asian populations. HR 137 recognizes the community’s cultural, civic and economic contributions to the state.

By adopting the Diwali resolution, the California State Assembly has placed this year’s Festival of Lights on the official legislative record. The measure also invites all Californians to learn about and participate in a celebration of light, hope, unity and renewal.

People across California will observe Diwali on November 8, 2026. The Assembly’s recognition reflects California’s commitment to honoring the diverse traditions that enrich communities across the state.

As families prepare to celebrate the Festival of Lights on November 8, 2026, travelers visiting loved ones can explore Indian Eagle flights for affordable and a smoother international journey.

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