October 15, 2025, New Delhi – Educational institutions across several states in India, including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Bihar, have announced closures today in observance of Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti and to facilitate preparations for the upcoming festivals of Diwali and Chhath Puja. The closures reflect the cultural and religious significance of these occasions, allowing students, teachers, and families to participate in traditional celebrations and rituals.

Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti: Honoring a Visionary Leader

Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti, commemorating the birth anniversary of the legendary king Maharaja Agrasen, is being observed today, particularly in northern states like Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. Maharaja Agrasen, a revered figure in the Agrawal and Vaishya communities, is celebrated for his contributions to social welfare, economic equality, and the establishment of democratic principles in ancient India. Schools in these regions, especially those affiliated with Agrawal community institutions, have declared a holiday to mark the occasion.

In Haryana and Rajasthan, where the Agrawal community has a significant presence, local schools and colleges have organized events leading up to the holiday, including seminars and cultural programs highlighting the king’s legacy. “Maharaja Agrasen’s principles of unity and equitable wealth distribution remain relevant today,” said Dr. Anil Gupta, a historian based in Jaipur. “This holiday allows students to learn about his contributions while participating in community-driven celebrations.”

Diwali Preparations Gain Momentum

With Diwali, the festival of lights, approaching, schools in states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, and Karnataka have extended closures to allow families and staff to prepare for the five-day festival, which typically begins with Dhanteras and culminates in Bhai Dooj. Diwali, one of India’s most significant festivals, involves cleaning and decorating homes, shopping for gifts, and preparing traditional sweets and delicacies.

In Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, district education authorities have cited the need for students and teachers to engage in pre-festival preparations as a key reason for the closure. “Diwali is a time for families to come together, and closing schools ensures that students can participate in these traditions without academic pressures,” said a spokesperson for the Delhi Education Department. Many schools have also scheduled cultural programs and competitions, such as rangoli-making and diya-decoration contests, in the days leading up to the holiday, fostering a festive spirit among students.

In Karnataka, particularly in urban centers like Bengaluru, schools have aligned their holiday schedules with local government directives, which emphasize the importance of cultural observances. Private schools in the state have also used this time to conduct community outreach programs, encouraging students to volunteer in local cleanliness drives ahead of Diwali.

Chhath Puja: A Significant Observance in Bihar

In Bihar, the closure of schools is closely tied to preparations for Chhath Puja, a major festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Celebrated predominantly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja involves rigorous rituals, including fasting, offerings, and prayers at riverbanks. The festival, which follows Diwali, requires extensive preparations, such as cleaning homes, purchasing ritual items, and setting up temporary ghats along rivers.

The Bihar government has declared school holidays to accommodate these preparations, recognizing the festival’s cultural and spiritual importance. “Chhath Puja is not just a festival; it’s a way of life for people in Bihar. Closing schools allows families to focus on the rituals and spend time together,” said Rakesh Kumar, a school principal in Patna. Many schools in the state have also encouraged students to learn about the environmental significance of Chhath Puja, promoting initiatives to keep riverbanks clean during the festival.

Impact on Education and Alternative Arrangements

The closure of schools across these states has prompted educational institutions to adapt their schedules to ensure minimal disruption to the academic calendar. In Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, many schools have shifted to online classes for the days leading up to the holidays, allowing students to complete pending assignments. In Delhi, some private schools have distributed study materials and pre-recorded lectures to keep students engaged during the break.

However, the closures have also sparked discussions about the balance between cultural observances and academic continuity. “While festivals are integral to our culture, extended closures can affect learning momentum, especially for board exam students,” said Meera Sharma, a parent in Noida. To address this, some schools have planned to extend academic sessions after the festival season to cover the syllabus.

Regional Variations in Celebrations

The reasons for school closures vary slightly across states, reflecting regional cultural priorities. In Rajasthan and Haryana, Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti takes precedence, with community events and processions planned in cities like Jaipur, Hisar, and Gurugram. In contrast, Bihar’s focus remains on Chhath Puja, with schools in rural areas particularly emphasizing the festival’s rituals. Karnataka, while not traditionally associated with Chhath Puja, has aligned its closures with Diwali preparations to accommodate the diverse population in urban areas.

In Uttar Pradesh, the state government has issued a circular confirming that schools will remain closed for a combination of these festivals, with additional holidays expected in the coming weeks as Diwali and Chhath Puja approach. Delhi’s education authorities have followed suit, ensuring that both public and private schools adhere to the holiday schedule.

Community and Economic Impact

The school closures have also had a ripple effect on local economies, particularly in urban centers. Markets in Delhi, Lucknow, and Patna have reported a surge in activity as families shop for Diwali and Chhath Puja essentials, including clothes, decorations, and puja items. Local vendors in Bihar have noted increased demand for traditional bamboo baskets and earthen lamps used during Chhath Puja.

Community organizations have also stepped in to support underprivileged families during the festive season. In Haryana, Agrawal community groups have distributed food and clothing to low-income households, while in Bihar, NGOs are working to ensure clean and safe ghats for Chhath Puja worshippers.

Looking Ahead

As India gears up for the festive season, the closure of schools underscores the country’s deep-rooted cultural traditions. While students and families embrace the opportunity to celebrate Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti, Diwali, and Chhath Puja, educational institutions are working to balance academic commitments with cultural observances. With the festive spirit in full swing, these holidays serve as a reminder of India’s diverse heritage and the importance of community, unity, and celebration.

For further updates on school reopenings and festival-related announcements, parents and students are advised to check with their respective state education departments or school authorities.

---

  Chhath Puja, Diwali Holidays, Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti