The Kerala government has announced a holiday for all educational institutions, including schools and colleges, on October 19, 2023, to observe the Durgashtami festival. This decision provides an extended break for students and staff ahead of the Durga Puja holidays scheduled for October 20 and 21. The announcement was made by the Kerala General Administration Department through an official order declaring a public holiday on this date.
This holiday applies not only to government and quasi-government offices but also to public sector undertakings and institutions governed under the Negotiable Instruments Act. All educational institutions, including professional colleges, will remain closed on October 19 as per the order.
What is the significance of the Durgashtami holiday in Kerala?
Durgashtami is an important festival celebrated as part of the Durga Puja festivities. It marks the eighth day of the Navaratri festival and holds religious and cultural significance in Kerala and other parts of India. The holiday allows people to participate in traditional rituals and celebrations associated with the festival.
How do Dussehra holidays vary across India?
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is celebrated across India with varying holiday schedules depending on the state and local school calendars. While schools nationwide close on Dussehra, the duration and dates of the holidays differ.
For example, schools in Telangana will remain closed until October 22, covering the main festive period of Dasara. In West Bengal, schools will stay closed until October 26 to accommodate the Durga Puja celebrations. Other states such as Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and the Delhi NCR region will observe a holiday on October 20 for Dussehra.
What are the key takeaways about the holiday schedule?
- Kerala schools and colleges will be closed on October 19 for Durgashtami.
- The holiday extends the break ahead of Durga Puja holidays on October 20 and 21.
- All government and quasi-government offices, public sector undertakings, and educational institutions are affected.
- Other states have varying holiday durations for Dussehra and Durga Puja celebrations.
- Telangana schools remain closed until October 22; West Bengal until October 26.
- Several states observe a holiday on October 20 for Dussehra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which institutions in Kerala will be closed on October 19?
A: All government and quasi-government offices, public sector undertakings, and educational institutions including professional colleges will be closed.
Q: Why is October 19 declared a holiday in Kerala?
A: The holiday is declared to observe the Durgashtami festival, which is part of the Durga Puja celebrations.
Q: How long will schools in Telangana remain closed for Dasara?
A: Schools in Telangana will remain closed until October 22, covering the main festive period.
Q: Are schools in West Bengal closed for Durga Puja?
A: Yes, schools in West Bengal will remain closed until October 26 to cover the Durga Puja celebrations.
Q: Do all Indian states observe the same Dussehra holiday dates?
A: No, the dates and duration of Dussehra holidays vary by state, district, and school calendar.
