Diwali just around the corner (October 20, 2025). many state education departments across India have declared school holidays to allow students and staff to celebrate the festive season. In certain states, the holiday stretch also overlaps with Chhath Puja, especially in regions where Chhath is deeply observed (like Bihar). Here’s a roundup of key states where schools will be closed, the duration of closures, and how Chhath Puja influences those decisions.
📍 States with School Holidays for Diwali & Chhath
Bihar
Bihar has declared an extended break covering both Diwali and Chhath Puja. Schools will be shut from October 20 to October 29, 2025.
This closure accommodates not only the Diwali festivities but also the intense observances of Chhath, which demand early mornings and rituals near water bodies.
Rajasthan
Schools in Rajasthan have a long Diwali vacation. The holiday period begins early.
The break is said to extend from October 12 to October 24, making it a 12-day midterm holiday around Diwali.
Uttar Pradesh
In UP, schools will be closed for Diwali for a few days. The break covers October 20–22 for Diwali, and extended closures (October 18–23) are also being cited.
While UP is not as intense in Chhath observance statewide as Bihar, some districts may observe Chhath closures depending on demographic demand.
Karnataka
Interestingly, Karnataka schools are closed, but not specifically for Diwali — rather, the closure is tied to an extended “caste survey” mandated by the state.
The closure is till October 18, 2025 in many districts, overlapping with the Diwali period.
Other States / Observations
According to state holiday listings and education department circulars, states like Andhra Pradesh and Telanganaare expected to mark Diwali itself as a school holiday, though only for a single day.
Some reports include Jharkhand and Jharkhand / Bihar border areas in Chhath observance, potentially declaring Chhath Puja closures, though no confirmed list is yet published.
🪔 Why Do States Observe School Closures for Diwali & Chhath?
Cultural Significance & Safety:
Diwali is one of India’s most widely celebrated Hindu festivals. Schools close to allow students and staff to participate in rituals, visit families, and observe festivities.Chhath Puja Demands:
Chhath Puja involves early morning and evening rituals, fasting, and offerings at water bodies, requiring significant time and logistical effort from devotees. In states where Chhath is deeply celebrated (Bihar, parts of UP, Jharkhand), the school calendar factors this in.Festive Travel & Commuting Considerations:
With high travel during the Diwali period, closing schools helps reduce risk and logistical strain on transport.Administrative Alignment:
Some state governments align school breaks with festivals so that holidays are synchronized across districts, easing governance and public policy.
🗓 What the Holiday Calendars Say
The Bihar Education Department has published a holiday calendar listing 72 holidays in 2025, including a robust Diwali-to-Chhath break from October 20 to 29.
For Uttar Pradesh, the state holiday list includes Deepavali (October 20–22).
In Rajasthan, the school holiday roster shows the Diwali break spanning October 12 to October 24.
These extended holiday schedules are more than simple one-day observances; many states are giving multi-day breaks to accommodate the festival season.
📝 What Students, Parents & Schools Should Know
Check official circulars / notices: Holiday declarations may differ by district or block within states.
Plan ahead for assignments / exams: Some schools may schedule work before or after the holiday stretch.
Transport & safety: For districts where students return later, ensure pick-up arrangements and safe travel plans.
Resource planning: Schools often pause extracurriculars / labs during festivals—check with your institution.
Stay updated on Chhath: In Bihar and UP especially, Chhath date announcements may affect late November/December schedules.
