Archive · 24 Jul 2026
California Court Strikes Down Diwali Holiday Recognition
A court in California has decided to remove parts of a law that made Diwali an official state holiday.
This law was passed less than a year ago and was meant to recognize the importance of Diwali, a festival celebrated by many Indians.
The court's decision was based on how the law described the religious significance of Diwali.
The Hindu American Foundation is disappointed because they believe this decision goes against the state's efforts to celebrate its diverse cultures and religions.
Diwali is a big festival for Hindus and is celebrated by many people in California, which has the largest Indian American population in the United States.
A California court struck down parts of a law that recognized Diwali as a state holiday.
The law was passed in October 2025 and was the third state to recognize Diwali after Pennsylvania and Connecticut.
The court's decision was based on the wording of the law describing Diwali's religious significance.
The Hindu American Foundation views the decision as a setback to recognizing cultural and religious diversity.
The law did not make Diwali a mandatory paid holiday for everyone but allowed eligible state employees to use paid leave.
- Who
- California court, Hindu American Foundation, Governor Gavin Newsom, Assembly member Ash Kalra
- What
- Striking down parts of the legislation recognizing Diwali as a state holiday
- When
- Less than a year after the order came into force
- Where
- California, United States
- Why
- The court focused on the wording of the law describing Diwali's religious significance
Hindu American Foundation
California Court
Significance of the Holiday
Hindu American Foundation
The Hindu American Foundation emphasizes the cultural and religious importance of Diwali, viewing the court's decision as a setback to recognizing diversity.
California Court
The court focused on the wording of the law describing Diwali's religious significance, leading to the striking down of parts of the legislation.
- State
- California, United States
- Governor
- Gavin Newsom
- Bill Introduced By
- Assembly member Ash Kalra
- Diwali Recognition Date
- October 2025
- Other States Recognizing Diwali
- Pennsylvania and Connecticut