California Assembly recognizes Diwali Day, expresses ‘Deepest Respect’ for Indian-Americans

The California State Assembly has adopted a resolution recognizing Diwali on November 8, 2026, highlighting the cultural, spiritual and community importance of the Festival of Lights and expressing respect for the Indian-American community in California and the wider Indian diaspora. House Resolution 137, introduced by Assembly Members Darshana Patel and Ash Kalra, recognizes Diwali as an important celebration for Indian-Americans and South Asian Americans and encourages people across California to participate in this year’s festivities.

The resolution notes that Diwali is observed by millions of people around the world, including Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains. It describes the centuries-old festival as a time when families, friends and communities come together to celebrate joy, generosity, unity and renewal while also reflecting on personal growth and positive values.

HR 137 was introduced on August 13 and moved quickly through the state Legislature. The Assembly Rules Committee approved the measure unanimously before it advanced to the Assembly floor on August 20. Lawmakers chose to recognize the festival ahead of its November observance because the Legislature will not be in session during the actual celebration.

Patel said the early recognition would ensure that Diwali receives formal attention on the Assembly floor before lawmakers leave the legislative session. She described the festival as a celebration centered on hope, renewal and community and expressed pride in bringing the resolution forward.

The resolution explains that Diwali, also known as Deepavali, means “a row of lamps.” Lighting candles, oil lanterns and traditional clay lamps is one of the festival’s most recognizable customs and represents the triumph of light over darkness. The celebration is also associated with the victory of good over evil and the overcoming of challenges through knowledge, wisdom and positivity.

Diwali traditions highlighted in the resolution include cleaning and decorating homes, creating colorful rangolis, preparing and sharing food and gathering with relatives and friends. Music, dance and community events are also important parts of celebrations in many communities.

For many people who observe Diwali, the festival also represents a new beginning and, in some traditions, the start of a new year. The resolution emphasizes values such as truth, justice, duty, family, kindness and humility, presenting the festival as an opportunity for individuals and communities to reflect while looking toward the future with optimism.

The Assembly’s latest action follows California’s formal recognition of Diwali through state law. In 2025, the state enacted Assembly Bill 268, authored by Kalra, which added Diwali to California’s list of official state holidays. The law identifies the festival according to the Hindu lunar calendar and formally recognizes its cultural importance to Californians who celebrate it.

HR 137 specifically acknowledges that earlier legislative milestone and connects the recognition of Diwali with California’s broader cultural diversity. Lawmakers said the official recognition reflects the contributions and traditions of communities that have become an important part of the state’s social, economic and cultural life.

The resolution also recognizes the growing presence of the Indian-American community in California and its contributions across various areas of public and community life. By placing this year’s Diwali observance on the Assembly record, lawmakers have given the festival an additional level of official recognition while encouraging residents throughout the state to take part in celebrations.

The adoption of HR 137 demonstrates California’s continuing effort to acknowledge the cultural traditions of its diverse population. As Diwali approaches in November, the resolution serves as both a formal legislative recognition and an invitation for Californians to learn about and participate in the traditions associated with the Festival of Lights.

Patel concluded her message by extending her wishes to everyone celebrating Diwali and expressing hope that the festival would bring joy, brightness and positivity to communities across California.