COLUMBUS – Governor Mike DeWine signed into law HB 173 last week, officially designating October as “Hindu Heritage Month” in Ohio.
Jay Goyal, the first Indian-American and Hindu to serve in the Ohio House of Representatives (2007–2013), attended the ceremony at the invitation of the bill’s sponsor, former State Senator Niraj Antani.
“It’s a proud moment to witness Ohio recognize the contributions and rich heritage of the Hindu community,” Goyal said. “As someone who has worked to elevate the voices of diverse communities during my time in the legislature and beyond, I am honored to have been part of this historic occasion.”
Today Goyal is president of Goyal Industries, a metal manufacturing firm in Mansfield.
Goyal represented Ohio’s 73rd District from 2007 to 2013, as the first Indian-American and Hindu elected to the Ohio state legislature. During his tenure, he focused on promoting technology-based economic development and balancing Ohio’s budget.
The designation of Hindu Heritage Month reflects Ohio’s growing diversity and the contributions of the Hindu-American community to the state’s cultural, social, and economic fabric.
October 2025 will mark the inaugural celebration of Hindu Heritage Month under this new law.
Governor DeWine, joined by prominent Hindu leaders from across Ohio and the nation, praised the effort as a testament to the state’s commitment to inclusivity. Community organizations, including the Hindu American Foundation, VHPA, and BAPS were also represented at the ceremony.
“I am so grateful to Governor DeWine for signing this bill to designate October as Hindu Heritage Month in Ohio,” said former Sen. Niraj Antani. “Governor DeWine has long had a close relationship with the Hindu community across Ohio and I’m grateful for his leadership.
“After two long years of work, I’m deeply pleased I was able to accomplish this achievement for our community.”
Background on Hinduism
Hinduism is one of the world’s oldest religions, with origins dating back over 4,000 years. It is practiced by over 1.2 billion people globally, making it the third-largest religion in the world.
The faith is rooted in principles such as non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
In the United States, Hinduism has flourished as a result of immigration and the contributions of the Indian-American community.
Today, an estimated 2.5 million Hindus live in the United States, with Ohio home to a vibrant Hindu population that contributes to the state’s cultural, economic, and social fabric.
Hindu festivals such as Diwali (the Festival of Lights) and Holi (the Festival of Colors) are celebrated worldwide and emphasize themes of hope, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil.
Hinduism’s timeless philosophies, including yoga and meditation, have been embraced globally for promoting well-being and inner peace.
Jay Goyal
Jay Goyal served as the State Representative for Ohio’s 73rd District from 2007 to 2013, serving as the Majority Whip from 2009-2011. Technology based economic development was a focus for Jay in his time in the legislature.
He introduced and passed House Joint Resolution 12 which allowed for the renewal of the $700 million Third Frontier program.
Additionally, he introduced and enacted into law House Bill 140 which encourages public universities to participate in technology commercialization and transfer by allowing public universities to take equity in start-ups.
For his legislative efforts, Jay was recognized in 2010 by Time Magazine as one of the “Top 40 Under 40 Rising Stars of American Politics.”
He has received Outstanding Legislator awards from organizations such as the American Veterans Organization, the Fraternal Order of Police, BioOhio – a biotech incubator, and the Ohio Society of Professional Engineers.
Jay Goyal serves as the President of Goyal Industries, a local family-owned metal manufacturing firm.