Senator Nikil Savaltweeted that the state ofPennsylvaniain theUnited Stateshas declared Diwali, the Hindu festival, as a national holiday. The legislation to make Diwali an official state holiday was introduced by StateSenators Greg RothmanandNikil Savalin February of this year.

The bill was passed unanimously by the Senate. According to My Twin Tiers, there are almost 200,000 South Asian residents in Pennsylvania, many of whom celebrate Diwali as a time for gathering and reflection. Senator Saval expressed gratitude to Senator Rothman for the opportunity to introduce this bill and welcomed all Pennsylvanians who celebrate Diwali.