On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, NV State Legislator Indian-American Reuben D’Silva announced today that he has introduced a bill to make South-Asian religious holidays, Diwali, Eid, Vaisakhi and Vesak official days of observance in the State of Nevada

“After making history as the first South Asian elected official in Nevada I am proud to bring forward a bill to recognize these important holidays which are central to the world religions they represent,” said Assemblyman D’Silva. Globally, adherents of Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, Sikhism, and Buddhism number in the billions. They make up some of the fastest growing faith communities in Nevada. By commemorating these important religious celebrations we recognize the contributions made by Hindu, Jain, Muslim, Sikh, and Buddhist Nevadans towards the betterment of our state. I look forward toshepherding this bill through the 2025 legislative session.”

 “Diwali, a Festival of Lights, is celebrated around the world by over 1.5 billion devout Hindus and other Indian communities,” said Swadeep Nigam, a longtime resident and active member of the Las Vegas Hindu community. “Hindus in Nevada will be ecstatic to learn about Assemblyman D’Silva’s bill seeking to recognize Diwali. The monumental move to declare the festival of Diwali an official day of observance will unquestionably enhance the religious and spiritual needs of the Hindu community in Nevada.” 

The Muslim Caucus and the Muslim community wishes to express its gratitude to Assemblyman D’Silva for his efforts in passing legislation to recognize Eid as a state day of observation,” said Fara Acheson, Chair of the Nevada Muslim Caucus. This bill will afford Muslims greater freedom to celebrate and observe this very important day. Also, by recognizing Eid, it shows our state’s inclusiveness. 

“The vibrant and growing Sikh community of Nevada expresses our gratitude to Indian-American Assemblyman Reuben D’Silva for recognizing the festival of Vaisakhi,” stated Tarsem Singh, President of the Guru Nanak Gurudwara (Temple). Vaisakhi celebrates the birth of the Sikh faith.” 

“We are very happy to finally see that the Buddha’s birthday will be officially recognized by the State of Nevada,” said Rev. Nawala Lakkana, a monk serving at the Nevada Buddhist Vihara. Vesak is the most important holiday in the Buddhist tradition. Nevada’s Buddhist community will strongly support this bill as it will allow for greater inclusivity of our faith, and greater visibility of our community.”