REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation for the Celebration of Diwali in the City of Santa Clara
Report
BACKGROUND
Over one billion celebrants worldwide observe the festival of Diwali, the “Festival of Lights” symbolizing the victory of dharma and good over evil. It is a festival of great significance to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.
Diwali is a time for dana (charitable giving) and seva (selfless service) by bringing light in the form of wisdom, knowledge, nourishment, and shelter to alleviate the tangible forms of suffering, such as hunger, disease, and poverty.
This year, Diwali falls on October 20, 2025, in accordance with the lunar calendar, and brings together families, friends, and communities here in the U.S. and around the globe in goodwill, peace, and a shared sense of renewal.
The United States Congress officially passed unanimous resolutions since 2007 recognizing the religious and historical significance of Diwali and California has recently become the third U.S. state to designate Diwali as an official statewide holiday commencing January 1, 2026.
DISCUSSION
The City of Santa Clara will officially proclaim the celebration of Diwali in the City of Santa Clara and present the proclamation to representatives of the respective community.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an informational report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact other than City staff time for preparing this report.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of the Celebration of Diwali