Is Diwali a Federal Holiday in USA?
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant festivals in the Hindu calendar. Celebrated by millions of people around the world, it is a time of joy, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil. However, the question that often arises is whether Diwali is recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. In this article, we will explore the status of Diwali in the United States and discuss the reasons behind its recognition or lack thereof.
Understanding Diwali
Diwali is a five-day festival that typically falls in October or November each year. It marks the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. The festival is celebrated with a variety of customs, including the lighting of lamps, fireworks, and the decoration of homes with colorful rangoli patterns. Diwali is also a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and offer prayers to deities.
Diwali’s Status in the United States
Despite the widespread celebration of Diwali in the United States, it is not recognized as a federal holiday. This means that federal employees do not receive the day off and businesses are not required to close. However, some state governments and private companies have chosen to recognize Diwali as a day of observance, allowing their employees to take the day off.
Reasons for Recognition or Lack Thereof
The lack of federal recognition for Diwali can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the United States has a diverse population, with over 20 million people of Indian origin. While Diwali is celebrated by many, it is not as widely observed as other major holidays such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Independence Day. Additionally, the federal government has a limited number of holidays, and resources are often allocated to established and widely recognized celebrations.
Efforts to Gain Recognition
Despite the current status, there have been efforts to gain federal recognition for Diwali. In 2018, Representative Ro Khanna from California introduced a resolution to recognize Diwali as an official federal holiday. Although the resolution did not pass, it highlights the growing support for recognizing Diwali’s significance in the United States.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Diwali is not recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. However, its celebration continues to grow, with many individuals, organizations, and even some state governments acknowledging its importance. As the Indian-American community in the United States expands, the possibility of Diwali gaining federal recognition may increase in the future. Until then, Diwali remains a cherished tradition that brings people together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness.
