Governor Stein Proclaims Hindu Heritage Month and Diwali

Hindu Heritage Month 

And 

Diwali 

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, Hinduism is the third-largest religion in the world with 1 billion devotees worldwide and 4 million in the United States; and

Whereas, Hindu heritage, culture, traditions, and values provide invaluable answers to many of life’s challenges and often serve as sources of inspiration, reflection, and contemplation for the millions of individuals who look to the teachings of Hinduism for guidance; and

Whereas, our vibrant Hindu American community has contributed tremendously to the vitality of the state of North Carolina by enriching the lives of its people; and

Whereas, Diwali, a festival of historic and religious significance, is celebrated annually by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists throughout the United States and across the world; and

Whereas, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus as a day of thanksgiving for the homecoming of Lord Rama and the beginning of the new year; and

Whereas, during the month of October, the Hindu community across North Carolina and our great nation will collectively celebrate its heritage by focusing on its culture and the diverse spiritual traditions rooted in India; and

Whereas, on behalf of the State of North Carolina, it is with immense pride and honor that I recognize the contributions of all Indian Americans who are active in many aspects of our economy, history, and culture;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 2026 as “Hindu Heritage Month” and November 8, 2026, as “Diwali” in North Carolina and commend their observance.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this twenty-fifth day of September in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifty-first.