School Holiday Today, October 7, for Valmiki Jayanti: State-Wise List of School Closures

India is set to celebrate Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, honoring the revered sage and poet who authored the epic Ramayana. While the occasion is marked as a restricted national holiday, several states have declared school and office closures, with others observing the day through cultural events and special programs.

State-wise Observances and Holidays

Uttar Pradesh: The state government has declared a public holiday on October 7, with all schools, colleges, and government offices remaining closed. Cultural programs, processions, and devotional gatherings are planned across several districts.

Delhi: Schools and government institutions will remain closed on the day. Many schools have also planned special assemblies and events on October 6 to commemorate the sage’s legacy ahead of the holiday.

Madhya Pradesh: Valmiki Jayanti features on the official state holiday calendar, and most educational and government institutions will remain shut. District administrations have lined up various community events and prayers in honor of Maharishi Valmiki.

Other States: In states like Karnataka, Haryana, and Rajasthan, Valmiki Jayanti is typically treated as a restricted or optional holiday. Schools and offices may choose to observe it depending on regional traditions and official notifications.

Why the Difference in Holiday Status?

As a restricted national holiday, the observance of Valmiki Jayanti is left to the discretion of individual state governments. States with a strong cultural or historical connection to Maharishi Valmiki, such as Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh, have opted for full closures, while others mark the occasion with events rather than holidays.

Key Highlights

Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Full Holiday States: Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh

Partial/Optional Holiday: Other states based on local decisions

Activities: Cultural programs, special prayers, community gatherings, and educational events

As India pays tribute to Maharishi Valmiki’s life and teachings this October, citizens are advised to check with local schools and offices for holiday schedules and planned celebrations.

About Maharishi Valmiki

Revered as the Adi Kavi (the first poet), Maharishi Valmiki holds a foundational place in Indian literature and spiritual tradition. He is credited with composing the Ramayana, one of Hinduism’s most cherished scriptures. His transformation from Ratnakar, a forest dweller, into a sage of profound wisdom symbolizes the power of redemption and the pursuit of truth. His teachings, rooted in morality and compassion, continue to inspire generations across the country.