As the vibrant festival of Diwali 2025 approaches, marking Monday, October 20th, schools across India are preparing for their annual festive break. While most institutions will observe the main festival, there’s some uncertainty in certain areas regarding whether the holiday will extend to October 21st for Govardhan Puja. This variation largely stems from diverse state academic calendars and board affiliations. Typically, CBSE and ICSE schools adhere to a consistent national schedule, but several state boards have announced longer breaks, influencing the precise holiday dates. The entire festive period usually encompasses key days like Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi), Diwali itself, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. Students from all boards eagerly anticipate this time off to celebrate with their families.
Understanding the General Holiday Pattern Across India
For 2025, the standard Diwali vacation period is set to run from October 18th to October 23rd. This includes holidays for Dhanteras, Chhoti Diwali, the primary Diwali festival, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj. However, it’s worth noting that some states may have slightly different schedules due to other regional festivals, such as Chhath Puja, or specific administrative decisions. Generally, most CBSE and ICSE affiliated schools are expected to adhere to this six-day break, unless local authorities issue alternative directives.
State-Specific Diwali School Holiday Details for 2025
While a general pattern exists, several state governments and local education departments have issued their own specific holiday notifications. Here’s a breakdown of notable variations:
- Rajasthan: Schools will be closed from October 13th to October 23rd, an extended 12-day break already in effect.
- Bihar: Students can expect holidays from October 18th to October 29th, encompassing not only Diwali but also Chhath Puja.
- Karnataka: The break is scheduled from October 8th to October 18th due to a caste survey, with additional holidays planned for October 20th and 22nd.
- Uttar Pradesh: Holidays are from October 20th to October 23rd, creating an extended weekend as October 19th is a Sunday.
- Delhi-NCR: Schools will close from October 19th to October 23rd, with a potential extension until October 28th due to Chhath Puja.
- West Bengal: The holiday period is from October 20th to October 23rd, including Kali Puja, Diwali, and Bhai Dooj.
- Andhra Pradesh: Only October 20th is a declared holiday, though some schools may have closed on October 18th, with October 19th being a Sunday.
CBSE and ICSE School Holiday Insights
Consistent with the national trend, most schools affiliated with CBSE and ICSE boards are anticipated to observe holidays from October 18th to October 23rd. This comprehensive break covers all five significant days of the Diwali festival. Nevertheless, schools situated in regions with unique local festivals or traditions might adjust their schedules, offering either longer or slightly different holiday periods according to specific state directives.
Key Diwali Festival Dates in 2025
For your convenience, here are the important dates for the Diwali holidays, based on official school calendars and state announcements:
- Dhanteras: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Chhoti Diwali (Narak Chaturdashi): Sunday, October 19, 2025
- Diwali (Main Festival): Monday, October 20, 2025
- Govardhan Puja: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
- Bhai Dooj: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Important Advisory for Parents and Students
While we’ve outlined the expected holiday patterns, it’s crucial to remember that the definitive holiday schedule can differ from one educational institution to another. Even within the same board, specific schools might adjust their breaks based on administrative choices or local traditions. Therefore, parents and students are strongly encouraged to contact their respective schools directly to confirm the precise Diwali holiday dates for 2025.