Is Diwali a public holiday in Kenya

2024 - 10 - 30

Diwali: Will Kenya Light Up with a New Public Holiday?

diwali public holiday Atheists - Diwali - Festival of Lights - Hindu Community - Kenya - President William Ruto - Public Holiday - diwali public holiday

President Ruto is considering making Diwali a national holiday, but will the Atheists allow it? Read on to find out!

Diwali, the dazzling Festival of Lights celebrated by millions around the world, might soon shine a little brighter here in Kenya! In a recent announcement, President William Ruto revealed plans to sponsor a bill that could make November 1 of every year a national holiday in honor of the festive occasion. This exciting news comes after persistent requests from Hindu teachers and leaders, who argue that the day of celebration should be recognized officially so that everyone can partake in the joyous festivities.

During a vibrant Diwali celebration held at State House, Nairobi, President Ruto acknowledged the cultural significance of the festival, stating, "I will undertake to subject it to the necessary legislative processes." The inclusivity of this move highlights Kenya's rich tapestry of cultures and religions, further uniting citizens in shared joy. Just imagine a public day filled with colorful decorations, the delicious aroma of traditional sweets, and the twinkling lights symbolizing the victory of light over darkness!

However, it seems that not everyone is on board with the public holiday proposal. In an unexpected twist, a group of Atheists has voiced their outrage, demanding their own national holiday as well. They argue that if one faith celebrates a public holiday, all should have the same opportunity, sparking a humorous yet serious debate around fairness and inclusivity in Kenya's public holiday calendar. It looks like this will spark discussion on just how many national holidays Kenya can hold without turning into a perpetual festive season!

As discussions continue, many Kenyans are eagerly anticipating the outcome. If Diwali is officially recognized, it will not only enrich the cultural landscape of Kenya but also create more spaces for interfaith dialogue. Fun fact: Diwali is not only celebrated in India but also in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius, showcasing its global significance! Another intriguing element is that the festival typically spans five days, with each day carrying its own unique rituals and stories, making it one of the most colorful celebrations on the planet!

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Image courtesy of "Pulse Live Kenya"

Is Diwali a public holiday in Kenya? (Pulse Live Kenya)

Diwali, often called the Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant religious celebrations originating in India. File image of President William ...

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Image courtesy of "Kenyans.co.ke"

Ruto Promises to Gazette Diwali as Public Holiday (Kenyans.co.ke)

President William Ruto on Wednesday announced that he will be sponsoring a bill to make November 1 of every year a national holiday to celebrate Diwali, ...

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Image courtesy of "The Star, Kenya"

Ruto vows to consider request to make Diwali public holiday (The Star, Kenya)

A Hindu teacher stated that they needed the day to be made a public holiday, so they could celebrate Diwali with the rest of Kenyans. "This is not only for ...

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Image courtesy of "Citizen Digital"

Ruto to decide on making Diwali a public holiday by next year (Citizen Digital)

Video screengrab of President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi when he hosted Hindus to mark Diwali on October 30, 2024. President William Ruto on Wednesday ...

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Image courtesy of "The Standard"

Ruto to consider gazetting Diwali as a public holiday (The Standard)

Speaking during the Diwali celebrations held at State House, Nairobi, Ruto revealed he has received many requests to make the festival an official holiday. "I ...

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Image courtesy of "Tv47 Digital"

Atheists demand their national holiday: โ€œWe will pursue legal action!โ€ (Tv47 Digital)

Ruto said this after a request by Hindu leaders when he hosted them at State House, Nairobi to mark the Diwali Festival. โ€œI will undertake to subject it to the ...

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Image courtesy of "nairobiwire.com"

President Ruto, Wetang'ula Back Request for Diwali Public Holiday ... (nairobiwire.com)

President William Ruto has pledged to consider the Hindu community's request to make Diwali a national public holiday starting in 2025.

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