With anticipation reaching a fever pitch for the upcoming opening of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, several Indian states have announced holidays for schools, allowing students and their families to join in the momentous occasion. This decision reflects the deep cultural significance of the event and the desire to share the celebrations widely.

Here’s a look at some of the states where schools will be closed on January 22nd, the day of the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony:

Full Holiday:

• Uttar Pradesh: The state at the heart of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Uttar Pradesh, has declared a full holiday for all educational institutions. This comes as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called the occasion a “national festival.”
• Goa: The coastal state of Goa will also see schools closed for the day, allowing families to participate in local celebrations as per Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s announcement.
• Haryana: Schools, colleges, and universities in Haryana will be shut until 2:30 PM, reflecting the state’s desire to actively participate in the festivities.
• Madhya Pradesh: The Madhya Pradesh government has declared a full holiday for all schools, reflecting the widespread support for the Ram Mandir within the state.
• Chhattisgarh: Schools across Chhattisgarh will remain closed, allowing students and families to join in the celebratory mood.

Half Holiday:

• Odisha: Schools in Odisha will shut down by 2:30 PM, facilitating participation in local events while ensuring some schooling time is preserved.
• Tripura: Similar to Odisha, schools in Tripura will be closed until 2:30 PM, striking a balance between celebration and education.
• Gujarat: All educational institutions in Gujarat will observe a half-day holiday, offering students and families the opportunity to join in the festivities without significant disruption to studies.

This decision by various state governments highlights the immense social and religious significance of the Ram Mandir opening. It also indicates a desire to foster a spirit of unity and community during this historic occasion.

While some states haven’t declared official holidays, local schools and institutions may choose to close independently in response to the widespread enthusiasm. Regardless of the official decrees, it is evident that the opening of the Ram Mandir will be a moment of collective celebration and shared national pride for many across India.

Note: This article is based on information available as of January 21, 2024. It is advisable to check with local authorities for the latest updates and specific details regarding school closures in your area.