The Kerala government has declared a public holiday on September 30 in view of the Navaratri celebrations, effectively giving the state a three-day holiday stretch at the end of the month. The announcement is part of broader regional observances across India, with several states issuing school closures and public holidays during the Navaratri and Durga Puja festivals. Both government offices and educational institutions will have a holiday. Several states have also rolled out extended holidays for schools during Navaratri and Durga Puja:
In West Bengal, schools are shut from September 24 to October 6, marking the longest festive break among states. Both government and private institutions are observing extended closures. Bihar schools are closed from September 27, with most remaining shut until October 2. Some districts, however, have extended the closure till October 5.
In Odisha, educational institutions are closed from September 29 (Maha Saptami) to October 2 (Vijaya Dashami/Dussehra). Assam, Holidays are scheduled for September 29 and 30, with additional closures on October 2 for Dussehra and Gandhi Jayanti. In Kerala, the declaration of September 30 as a public holiday adds to the festive atmosphere, especially for students and government employees.
The 9-day festival of Navratri is celebrated every year. Hindu devotees worship Maa Durga, and her nine manifestations, also known as the Navdurgas, during this time. This year, it began on September 22 and will conclude on October 2, with Vijayadashami or Dussehra.
