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School Holidays: Diwali holidays have begun in schools, states have released schedules

Diwali School Holidays Begin: Karnataka, Rajasthan, UP, and Bihar Announce Festive Breaks for Students
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Schools Across States Begin Diwali Breaks — Check Complete Holiday Schedule

As the festive season begins across India, several state governments have officially announced Diwali school holidays for students and teachers. States like Karnataka, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar have issued separate schedules, with breaks ranging from a few days to almost two weeks — depending on local events, surveys, and festivals such as Diwali and Chhath Puja.

Let’s take a look at the detailed state-wise holiday schedules and the reasons behind them.

Karnataka: Schools Closed from October 8 to 18 for Statewide Survey

In Karnataka, schools have already begun their festive break — but for a slightly different reason. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that all schools will remain closed from October 8 to 18, 2025, to facilitate the ongoing social and educational census, commonly known as the caste survey.

The decision was taken to allow teachers and administrative staff to participate in the data collection process. Some districts like Koppal have already completed 97% of the survey, while Udupi and Dakshina Kannada are still lagging behind with around 60% of the work pending. Teachers engaged in mid-term examinations have been exempted from survey duties.

This extended break gives students and educators a pause ahead of the upcoming Diwali celebrations.

Rajasthan: 12-Day Diwali Vacation from October 13 to 24

The Rajasthan Education Department has declared a 12-day holiday for schools from October 13 to October 24, 2025. The announcement ensures that both students and teachers get ample time to celebrate Diwali and spend quality time with their families.

This year, Diwali festivities are expected to bring vibrant cultural events to schools once classes resume. The extended break aligns with Rajasthan’s long-standing tradition of observing generous holidays during major festivals.

Uttar Pradesh: Shorter Diwali Break from October 20 to 23

In Uttar Pradesh, Diwali holidays will begin slightly later than other states. Schools across the state will remain closed from October 20 to October 23, with weekend holidays (October 18–19) adding up to a total of six days off.

The state’s education department has planned the schedule in a way that minimizes academic disruption while still allowing students to enjoy the festive period with their families.

Bihar: Combined Break for Diwali and Chhath Puja

In Bihar, schools will remain closed from October 20 onwards, combining Diwali and Chhath Puja breaks into a single extended vacation. Chhath Puja, one of the state’s most significant festivals, follows soon after Diwali, and the government has aligned the schedule to accommodate both.

This move is expected to ease travel for families and teachers who return to their hometowns to participate in the celebrations.

Other States Likely to Follow

Following these announcements, several other states are expected to declare their Diwali vacation schedules soon. States such as Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra may also release similar circulars within the week, ensuring uniformity in festive breaks across educational institutions.

The Festive Spirit Returns to Schools

After months of regular classes and exams, the announcement of Diwali holidays has brought visible excitement among students. For teachers too, the break offers a much-needed opportunity to rejuvenate before the new academic term resumes in late October.

From survey duties in Karnataka to traditional festivities in Bihar, every state is celebrating this season in its own way — but the message is the same: Diwali is a time for joy, togetherness, and new beginnings.