Mathews Introduces Legislation to Honor Hindu Heritage

COLUMBUS – State Representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Dr. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) introduced legislation that will designate October as Hindu Heritage Month in Ohio.

The bill seeks to recognize contributions of Hindu Americans to culture, education, faith, and life in the state. If passed, Ohio will be among the first in the nation to recognize Hindu Heritage Month. 

“Ohio is home to millions of unique individuals, each with their own background and story,” Mathews said. “It is extremely important that we recognize the heritage of all cultures in Ohio, which is why Rep. Somani and I introduced this bill.”

October was chosen nationally because it is the birth month of Mahatma Gandhi and often when Hindu holidays are celebrated, such as Navaratri and Diwali. 

Senator Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg) introduced a companion bill in the Ohio Senate. Mathews and Somani are looking forward to working with Antani to produce the best version of such a bill and make October of this year the first Hindu Heritage Month in Ohio.