November 10, 2026 2:04 PM

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US lawmakers reintroduce bill in House of Representatives seeking to declare Diwali a federal holiday

US lawmakers have reintroduced a bill in the House of Representatives seeking to declare Diwali a federal holiday. The legislation, known as the Diwali Day Act, is led by Congresswoman Grace Meng and has the support of 19 lawmakers, including five Indian-origin representatives. The bill recognises Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, as an important celebration for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. Meng said the move would promote cultural inclusion and recognise America’s diverse traditions. If passed by Congress, Diwali would become the twelfth federally recognised holiday in the United States.