New York, Oct. 31 -- In a historic move, Diwali will be celebrated as an official school holiday in New York City, enabling over 1.1 million students to observe the festival of lights.

Diwali has been declared a school holiday for New York City public schools beginning this year. Last year, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation making Diwali a school holiday for the city's public schools.

New York City schools will remain closed on November 1 in celebration of Diwali.

Deputy Commissioner for New York City's Mayor's Office for International Affairs Dilip Chauhan said Diwali being celebrated as an official school holiday in New York City for the first time is a "milestone that celebrates our city's diversity and the tir...