SR286: SR286 Diwali Day; recognize October 20, 2025

25 LC 112 2996 Senate Resolution 286 By: Senators Still of the 48th, Jones of the 10th and Esteves of the 35th A RESOLUTION Recognizing October 20, 2025, as Diwali Day; and for other purposes.1 WHEREAS, Diwali (or Deepavali) is a time for thanksgiving and p rayer for health,2 knowledge, and peace; it is celebrated by over 1 billion people , including millions of3 Americans and tens of thousands of Georgians, of different cultures and religions worldwide.4 Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains celebrate this important and ancient festival; and5 WHEREAS, the festival lasts five days, with the third day marki ng the day celebrated as6 "Diwali"; and7 WHEREAS, Diwali falls on the 15th of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik, which aligns8 with the new moon day of the first month of the lunar year; and9 WHEREAS, Diwali is a festival that holds deep cultural, religious, and social significance,10 marking a time of renewal, reflection, and the triumph of positivity in the face of adversity.11 Diwali is known as a time for dana and seva—the giving of charity and selfless service to our12 fellow humans; and13 S. R. 286 - 1 - 25 LC 112 2996 WHEREAS, during Diwali, celebrants light small oil lamps, place them around the home,14 and pray for health, knowledge, and peace; Diwali serves as a r eminder of the importance15 of compassion, generosity, and the pursuit of knowledge in building harmonious societies;16 and17 WHEREAS, Georgia has long been a place that welcomes, honors, and supports the diverse18 array of practices, beliefs, and traditions among its citizens.19 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body20 recognize October 20, 2025, as Diwali Day.21 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed22 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the23 press.24 S. R. 286 - 2 -