California Declares Diwali a State Holiday:
The State of California in the United States has officially declared Diwali a state holiday. With this decision, California has become the third U.S. state — after Pennsylvania and Connecticut to grant official recognition and holiday status to the festival of lights. This move marks a moment of pride for the Indian-American community, which has played a significant role in the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the United States.The announcement came after California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill introduced by Assembly Member Ash Kalra.The legislation recognizes Diwali as an official state holiday, providing paid leave to state employees and allowing schools and institutions to observe the festival.
