Schools across states to remain closed for major October festivals including Diwali and Chhath

The month of October 2025 is filled with festivals, and schools across India will remain closed in different states to allow students to celebrate. Major festivals this month include Diwali on October 20, Govardhan Puja on October 22, Bhai Dooj on October 23, and Chhath Puja on October 27 and 28. Schools, colleges, and other educational institutions will adjust their calendars according to these festive occasions.

In Uttar Pradesh, schools will be closed from October 20 to 23 for Diwali celebrations. With a Sunday holiday on October 19, students will enjoy a five-day break. This extended holiday gives families time to celebrate the festival of lights together. Schools are scheduled to reopen on October 24.

In Rajasthan, schools will remain closed for a longer period, from October 13 to 24. This 12-day break allows students and teachers to celebrate Diwali and spend time with family and friends.

In Delhi, schools are likely to be closed on October 20 for Diwali and October 22 for Govardhan Puja. This follows a similar schedule as last year, giving students two days to celebrate the festivals.

Bihar has planned one of the longest school breaks in the country. Schools will remain closed from October 18 to 29, covering both Diwali and Chhath Puja. The extended holiday allows students to participate in festive rituals and events following Diwali.

In West Bengal, schools are already on an extended Puja vacation. The break began on September 24, two days earlier than initially scheduled due to natural calamities. Schools will remain closed until October 24, giving students a month-long holiday to celebrate Durga Puja and other festivals.

In Karnataka, schools will remain closed until October 18 to allow teachers to participate in the state’s social and educational survey. Additionally, schools are likely to be closed on October 20 for Naraka Chaturdashi and October 22 for Balipadyami/Diwali, ensuring students can celebrate the major festivals properly.

Jammu & Kashmir authorities are monitoring weather conditions closely. Some areas in the Jammu Division have been experiencing irregular rainfall, which may affect school operations. Official announcements regarding school closures will be issued depending on local conditions. Parents and students are advised to check local updates regularly.

In Odisha, schools are expected to remain closed on October 20 for Deepavali and Kali Puja celebrations. This allows students to take part in local religious and cultural events.

Similarly, in Assam, schools are likely to announce a holiday on October 20 for Deepavali and Kali Puja, enabling students to enjoy the festive day with their families.

State-wise school closure schedule and festive planning

State governments plan school holidays carefully to align with important festivals. These breaks not only allow students to celebrate but also ensure teachers and staff can participate in community events and rituals. Holidays during major festivals are a long-standing tradition in India, giving students time to enjoy cultural activities and spend quality time with their families.

In Uttar Pradesh, the five-day break around Diwali is a common practice, allowing families to prepare for and celebrate the festival without worrying about school commitments. Similarly, Rajasthan’s 12-day break ensures that both students and teachers have sufficient time to celebrate safely and comfortably.

Delhi’s short two-day holiday for Diwali and Govardhan Puja follows a pattern similar to previous years, balancing academic schedules with festive celebrations. Schools typically resume immediately after the festival days, ensuring minimal disruption to the academic calendar.

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Bihar’s long break from October 18 to 29 is planned to accommodate multiple festivals, including Diwali and Chhath Puja. This extended period allows students to engage fully in traditional rituals and family celebrations. Such extended breaks also help local communities in festival preparations and celebrations.

In West Bengal, the extended Durga Puja vacation allows students to participate in cultural events and religious ceremonies. The early start of the holiday, due to unforeseen natural calamities, ensures that students can celebrate safely without facing academic pressures.

Karnataka’s school closures are partly due to administrative activities, like the state social and educational survey, in addition to festival celebrations. This ensures that teachers can contribute to state programs while students enjoy festival holidays.

Jammu & Kashmir presents a unique case where school closures depend on weather conditions. Irregular rainfall may affect school functioning, and official updates are closely monitored to ensure safety and timely communication with parents.

Odisha and Assam follow similar patterns, aligning holidays with local festivals like Deepavali and Kali Puja. These short, single-day holidays allow students to participate in local cultural events and family celebrations.

Overall, October 2025 is a festive month for students across India. School holidays provide a chance to relax, enjoy cultural traditions, and spend time with family and friends. Parents are advised to keep track of state-specific announcements to ensure children do not miss any important school updates. These holidays also give students time to recharge before resuming academic work, helping balance education and cultural participation.

The festive season in October reflects India’s rich cultural diversity, with each state planning holidays based on local customs, religious events, and practical considerations. From short single-day closures to month-long breaks, students have the opportunity to celebrate Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Chhath Puja, and other important festivals safely and joyfully.