Will schools be open or closed on Dhanteras? Find out the holiday updates for Diwali, Bhai Dooj, and Chhath Puja..
Dhanteras and Diwali 2026: State-wise School Holidays – As November arrives, the festive spirit of Diwali—the grandest festival of lights—begins to spread. Markets are bustling with shoppers, and people are busy with festival preparations. During the festive season, children are often most excited about school holidays. This year, the main day of Diwali falls on Sunday, November 8. Some students might fear that this could mean fewer holidays, but that is not the case.
Various state governments have prepared their own holiday calendars for Diwali. States like Maharashtra and Rajasthan have announced long, 10-to-12-day mid-term breaks. Meanwhile, in Bihar, schools will remain closed for 11 consecutive days due to the Chhath festival. There is also some uncertainty regarding whether schools will remain open or closed on Dhanteras (November 6). To clear up any confusion, here is a breakdown of how many days schools will remain closed in different states, from Dhanteras through to Chhath Puja.
Where will schools be closed on Dhanteras (November 6)?
Dhanteras falls on November 6. On this day, schools will remain closed in states such as Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Himachal Pradesh. In contrast, in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, and Madhya Pradesh, most private and government schools may either hold regular classes or operate for a half-day. However, many schools are choosing to begin their Diwali vacation as early as Dhanteras.
Extended breaks of over 10 days in Rajasthan and Maharashtra
Students in Rajasthan and Maharashtra have received the best Diwali 2026 gift. In Maharashtra, a mid-term break has already begun—starting November 2 and continuing until November 14. Since November 15, 2026, falls on a Sunday, schools there will reopen on November 16. In Rajasthan, schools and colleges will remain closed for 12 consecutive days, from November 4 to November 15. An 11-Day Break in Bihar for the Chhath Festival
In Bihar, Chhath—the most significant festival of public faith—is celebrated immediately after Diwali. In light of Chhath Puja 2026, the state government has ordered the closure of schools from November 7 to November 17. Consequently, students in Bihar will enjoy an 11-day consecutive break, spanning from Diwali through the Chhath festival.
Holiday Schedules for Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh
In the hilly state of Himachal Pradesh, a four-day holiday—from November 6 to November 10—may be declared for the Diwali festivities. Meanwhile, in Chhattisgarh, schools and colleges will remain closed for six consecutive days, from November 6 (Dhanteras) to November 11 (Bhai Dooj). However, individual education boards may also announce holidays according to their own specific schedules.
How Long Will Schools Remain Closed in UP?
In Uttar Pradesh, schools will observe holidays for Diwali (November 8, 2026), Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. That said, local authorities or private schools may make their own adjustments to these holidays. Therefore, students and parents are advised to check for official messages, holiday notices, or circulars issued by their respective schools. In case of any confusion, please contact the school directly.
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