State lawmakers approved a bill that will make Diwali a city school holiday. Another bill allows districts statewide to observe Lunar New Year.

The bills approved on Friday would allow all public schools in the city to close in observance of Diwali, and will take effect on July 1 if Gov. Kathy Hochul signs it into law.

Lunar New Year is already a school holiday in New York City.

"The New York State Legislature's approval of these two measures is a wonderful reminder and celebration of the great diversity that exists in our state, and underscores how this diversity should be reflected in the holidays observed by our residents," Rep. Grace Meng of Queens said in a statement Saturday.

Last month, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie announced his desire to make Diwali and Lunar New Year state holidays, saying that "it is important to recognize New York's rich and diverse culture."

In October, Mayor Eric Adams held an event with Schools Chancellor David Banks and Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar calling for the state legislature to officially make Diwali a public school holiday.

"Our public school calendar is not just a list of days off. It is a testament to New York City's diversity, inclusiveness and character," Adams said at the October press conference.

Diwali lasts five days and is celebrated by Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains, along with people of Indian-Caribbean heritage. India's biggest and most important holiday of the year is a festival of lights that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.