In a First, New York City Declares School Holiday For Diwali

Diwali Holiday in New York: In a historic move, New York City schools will close on vember 1 to observe Hindu festival, Diwali . This marks first time city's schools have recognised holiday.

"This year Diwali is special. For first time in history of New York City, schools will be closed on Friday, vember 1 for festival of Diwali," Dilip Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner of Mayor's Office for International Affairs, said.

"It's t easy in New York City, where 1.1 million students are studying in school, to declare school a public holiday," said Chauhan. "So many community leaders--y started this movement many years ago--community advocates, elected officials. 

But finally, under administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, y have declared, administration has declared, vember 1st, Friday is a school holiday."

Furr, Chauhan highlighted significance of this decision, citing years of advocacy from community leaders and officials. "When student has to choose about school or ir celebration Diwali is t a one-day celebration It's a five-day celebration Sometimes y have to do prayer during day of Diwali. 

y have to go to temple so y have to choose temple or school w. y are t under pressure and this year."
With Diwali w a recognised holiday, students longer face this dilemma. 

"After October 31st is Halloween night, y don't have pressure to go next day to school," Chauhan ted.Chauhan expressed gratitude to Mayor Eric Adams for declaring Diwali a public holiday. 

“We are so proud; also, Mayor Eric Adams has declared this Diwali. So, we are all very grateful to him. Happy Diwali to everyone.”

Earlier in June, New York City officially declared Diwali as a public school holiday. Diwali is a festival of lights and one of major events celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists. And it is w a public school holiday, giving students in New York City day off to celebrate.

Meanwhile, American First Lady, Jill Biden, and President Joe Biden hosted a Diwali celebration at White House on October 28, inviting Indian-Americans from across United States to attend.

This was couple's last Diwali celebration as President and First Lady. Over years, Bidens' Diwali celebration has added a unique touch to this lumius tradition.

White House shared pictures of Diwali celebrations on X and wrote, "Happy Diwali from White House! Toger, may we show power in garing of light."

(Except for headline, this story has t been edited by Republic and is published from a syndicated feed.)