WHEREAS, Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a festival of historic, cultural, and spiritual significance, celebrated annually by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists across the United States and around the world; and

WHEREAS, Diwali derives its name from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning “row of lights,” and is widely recognized as the Festival of Lights, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil; and

WHEREAS, celebrants mark Diwali by lighting oil lamps, decorating their homes, gathering with loved ones, sharing traditional foods, and offering prayers for wisdom, compassion, and peace; and

WHEREAS, for Hindus, Diwali honors the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after fourteen years in exile; for Sikhs, it commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind from unjust imprisonment; for Jains, it marks the attainment of moksha by Lord Mahavira; and for Buddhists in some traditions, it is associated with Emperor Ashoka’s embrace of the path of peace; and

WHEREAS, the vibrant and diverse communities across the Commonwealth that observe Diwali contribute to the social, economic, and cultural strength of Virginia, and Diwali celebrations throughout the Commonwealth offer an opportunity to reflect on shared values of family, faith, and community;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize October 21, 2025, as DIWALI DAY OF CELEBRATION in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.