In a significant recognition of Indian culture and traditions abroad, the US state of Connecticut has officially passed a law to recognise Diwali, making it only the second state in the country after Pennsylvania to do so.
On Tuesday, June 10, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont signed SB 1519 into law, giving statutory recognition to the festival. The bill received unanimous support in both the House and Senate of the Connecticut State Legislature.
Celebrated by millions across the world, Diwali — the Festival of Lights — marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In Connecticut alone, more than 30,000 Hindus observe the festival, along with members of the Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain communities.
While several American states have issued proclamations acknowledging the festival, Connecticut’s move to include Diwali in state law is seen as a major step forward. It will enable those who observe Diwali to more easily seek religious accommodations in schools and workplaces, allowing them to celebrate the festival with their families and local communities.
The bill was introduced by the Joint Government Administration and Elections Committee, a bipartisan panel consisting of both Senators and Representatives. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) played a key role in the process, working closely with local community members, including Hamden resident Rajeev Pahuja, to garner widespread support for the legislation.
“I truly appreciate that the Governor of Connecticut, Ned Lamont, signed Diwali into Connecticut law,” Pahuja said, as quoted in an official news release by the HAF.
“The Diwali message is crucial and needed in Connecticut. Diwali not only represents the rich tapestry of our diverse community, it reminds us to respect and understand one another. Making Diwali a state holiday ensures that future generations of Hindus will be seen and valued in Connecticut,” he added.
Managing Director of HAF, Samir Kalra, also applauded the achievement. “We are grateful for the tremendous support for SB 1519, not only from the Connecticut legislature, but also from the Connecticut Hindu community. We hope to see other states follow Pennsylvania and Connecticut’s lead and make Diwali a state holiday for Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains across the US.”
The new law will take effect on October 1, 2025. Diwali will be celebrated on October 20 that year.
