Diwali 2025 School Holidays: Key Dates and State-Specific Observances

Overview of Diwali 2025 Holidays
Diwali 2025 Holiday: India is renowned for its vibrant festivals, with Diwali and Chhath Puja being among the most anticipated. These celebrations, occurring in late October, not only carry deep cultural and religious significance but also provide students with extended breaks from school. However, the exact dates for Diwali have caused some confusion regarding school holidays (Diwali 2025 Date). The final determination of school holidays is made by the education departments of state governments, Kendriya Vidyalayas, and private school administrations.
Diwali and Chhath Puja Dates in 2025
In 2025, Diwali and Chhath Puja will take place in October. Many states will observe two phases of holidays. Due to slight variations in festival dates, schools must decide which day will be recognized as the main holiday. Diwali, celebrated over five days, contrasts with Chhath Puja, which spans four days. It's important to note that Chhath holidays are not universally observed; they are particularly significant in Bihar and are also recognized in certain districts of Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.
Diwali 2025 School Holidays: Key Dates
When and where will Diwali be a holiday?
In 2025, Diwali is set for Monday, October 20, coinciding with Lakshmi Puja. The Amavasya date extends until the evening of October 21, but due to Lakshmi Puja occurring during the Pradosh period, most regions will celebrate Diwali on October 20. Consequently, this day will be the primary holiday for Diwali. Some areas may also observe a holiday on October 21, depending on local customs. Typically, Diwali holidays last from Dhanteras (October 18) to Bhai Dooj (October 23), spanning 3 to 6 days in various states.
State-Specific Diwali Holidays
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar: Holidays generally run from October 20 to October 23, including Govardhan Puja (October 22) and Bhai Dooj.
Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra: These states typically declare extended holidays from October 19 to October 23 for the festival.
Chhath Puja 2025 Holidays: Duration and Observance
When will Chhath Puja holidays occur?
The four-day Chhath festival begins with Nahai-Khai on Saturday, October 25, with main offerings on Shashthi Tithi (Sandhya Arghya on Monday, October 27) and Saptami (Usha Arghya on Tuesday, October 28). Chhath Puja holidays are specific to certain regions and are not nationwide. Schools in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh will close for Chhath, as it is a major festival in these areas, warranting extended holidays.
School Closures for Chhath Puja
How many days will schools be closed for Chhath?
In Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, October 27 (Monday) and October 28 (Tuesday) may be designated as official holidays. Many schools will provide additional holidays of two to four days, starting from Nahai-Khai (October 25) through October 28.
Other regions: In metropolitan areas like Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Kolkata, where there is a significant population from Bihar and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, some local schools may offer optional or one-day holidays on October 27 or 28.