Schools Across India Close for Dussehra Festival Celebrations

Schools in several parts of India have declared closures for Dussehra, the significant autumn festival celebrated on Tuesday, October 20. The festival, observed across Hindu communities nationwide, commemorates the triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana and is among the most important celebrations in the Indian calendar.

Dussehra typically triggers widespread holidays in educational institutions, with state governments and school management committees announcing closures to allow students and staff to participate in festivities and religious observances. The exact duration and coverage of holidays vary across different states and regions, depending on local administrative directives.

Parents and guardians are advised to check with their respective schools regarding specific closure dates and any adjustments to the academic calendar. Educational boards and district administrations generally communicate holiday schedules in advance to facilitate planning for families.

The festival, celebrated over ten days leading up to Dussehra, sees elaborate preparations including rangoli decorations, cultural programs, and traditional gatherings. The holiday typically coincides with autumn harvests in several regions, making it a culturally significant period across the country.

Photo: A Ravana effigy burns at Dussehra celebrations at Subhash Maidan, Delhi, October 2012. Press Information Bureau for the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, via Wikimedia Commons (GODL-India).