November 5 School Holiday News: Bihar, UP, Maharashtra, Telangana

Wednesday, November 5, brings mixed updates across India regarding school holidays. While Guru Nanak Jayanti is being celebrated with great devotion in northern states, other regions are dealing with election preparations and weather-related issues. Here’s a complete state-wise look at which schools are open and which remain closed today.

Guru Nanak Jayanti: Holiday in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and Uttar Pradesh
November 5 marks Guru Nanak Jayanti (Prakash Utsav or Guru Purab) — the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism. The day is listed as a Gazetted Holiday by the Central Government, and schools, colleges, and most government offices are shut across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and Uttar Pradesh.

In these states, schools will remain closed as devotees participate in Nagar Kirtans, Akhand Path, and Langar programs. Cities including Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Faridabad have declared a full-day holiday for both private and government schools. Some schools had shortened classes or early dismissals on November 4 due to the ongoing religious processions.

The festival is observed with immense reverence — Gurdwaras are illuminated, hymns are sung, and community feasts are organized, reflecting Guru Nanak’s teachings of equality, humility, and service.

Bihar: Schools Involved in Election Duties Closed
As Bihar heads to the polls on November 6 (Thursday), many schools being used as polling stations are closed today to allow staff and officials to prepare for the voting process. However, schools not engaged in polling activities are functioning as usual on November 5.

The Education Department has instructed all district authorities to ensure smooth conduct of elections, and security arrangements have been strengthened around the designated polling centers.

Uttar Pradesh: Anupshahr Schools Closed for Kartik Purnima Ganga Snan Mela
In Anupshahr, Bulandshahr district, schools remain closed from November 3 to 6 due to the famous Lakhmi Kartik Purnima Ganga Snan Mela. The order applies to all government and private schools in the area, as the fair attracts large numbers of devotees, creating heavy traffic and crowding near the riverbanks.

Meanwhile, schools in other parts of Bulandshahr are operating normally. The Kartik Purnima fair, known for its religious and cultural importance, continues to draw thousands of pilgrims, offering a major boost to local businesses and artisans.

Maharashtra: Rain Alert in Several Districts
Schools across Maharashtra are open today, but the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for multiple districts, including Raigad, Jalgaon, Beed, and Amravati, warning of possible heavy rainfall.

While Mumbai saw moderate showers over the weekend, authorities have not declared any statewide school closure. However, local administrations have been instructed to monitor weather developments and close schools if conditions worsen. Parents are advised to stay updated through official school notices and WhatsApp announcements.

Telangana and Andhra Pradesh: Gradual Return to Normal After Cyclone Montha

After Cyclone Montha moved away from the coast, conditions have largely stabilized in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
In Telangana, schools have reopened in most areas, though some institutions in Khammam and Bhadradri Kothagudem districts remain shut due to waterlogging. Officials are assessing the situation and will decide on reopening once the areas are cleared.

In Andhra Pradesh, the IMD has predicted mild showers in isolated regions such as Rayalaseema and Coastal Andhra, but no widespread disruption is expected. Schools have resumed normal schedules, though local authorities may issue temporary closures if weather conditions deteriorate.

Parents Advised to Stay Updated

Since weather and event-based closures often vary by district, parents are advised to check official school websites or class WhatsApp groups for the latest announcements. Many schools release holiday updates late at night or early in the morning, particularly during adverse weather or public gatherings.

These channels remain the most reliable sources for accurate and timely updates about holidays, reopening dates, and safety instructions.

Also read: Kartika Purnima and Guru Nanak Jayanti: Holiday in Telangana, Optional in AP