SALT LAKE CITY – Proposed legislation that would designate a state commemorative period for Diwali passed on second reading Friday in the Utah Senate.
SB46 — State Holiday Modifications — is being sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Fillmore, R-South Jordan, and would designate Diwali to be celebrated on the 15th day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik, which is typically between late October to early November, according to a news release from the Senate.
Diwali is often referred to as the festival of lights due to the tradition of lighting diyas, candles or lanterns in homes, temples and workspaces, the news release said. The festival celebrates light over darkness and good conquering evil. Many Utahns participate in Diwali celebrations every fall.
The idea for this bill came from a constituent in Herriman who reached out to Fillmore.
“I appreciate Utah’s Indian community,” Fillmore said in a news release. “Their collaborative efforts to organize events to include the neighboring communities, as well as their efforts to increase education about Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism, have helped create a better sense of understanding in our state. This bill recognizes others’ cultures, contributing to the wonderful tapestry that is Utah.”
Many eastern religions, including Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism, celebrate Diwali, a religious festival similar to Christmas for Christians.