Schools in several Indian states will observe a holiday on November 5, 2025 , for Guru Nanak Jayanti . The closure primarily affects educational institutions in Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the revered founder of Sikhism.
Guru Nanak Jayanti: Observance and Significance
Students and faculty in specific regions will receive a break from classes for Guru Nanak Jayanti. Schools in Delhi , Punjab , Chandigarh , Haryana , and Uttar Pradesh are scheduled to remain closed. This allows for participation in religious and community activities associated with the festival.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is also widely known as Prakash Utsav or Guru Purab. It marks the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539), who laid the foundations of the Sikh faith. His teachings emphasized universal brotherhood, selfless service, equality among all people, and devotion to one God. These principles form the core tenets of Sikh philosophy.
Celebrations for Guru Nanak Jayanti are vibrant and widespread. They typically begin with early morning processions (Prabhat Pheris) two days prior, moving through neighborhoods and reciting hymns. On the day itself, gurdwaras host special prayers, kirtans (singing of holy hymns), and akhand paths (non-stop recitations of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture). Community kitchens, known as langar, serve free meals to all attendees, regardless of background, embodying the principle of equality and shared humanity. These events underscore the spiritual and social importance of the occasion.
Other Notable School Holidays in November 2025
Beyond Guru Nanak Jayanti, November 2025 features additional school holidays. These are either regionally specific, celebrating state formations, or nationally observed days of remembrance and honor. Students and parents should consult their local school district calendars for definitive holiday schedules applicable to their area.
Detailed List of November 2025 School Holidays
| Date | Holiday Name | Significance and Observance | Primary States Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 5, 2025 | Guru Nanak Jayanti | This day celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539), the founder of the Sikh religion. It promotes his teachings of peace, equality, and devotion. Observed with processions, prayers, and community meals (langar) in gurdwaras. | Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh |
| November 9, 2025 | Uttarakhand Foundation Day | Commemorates the formation of Uttarakhand as a separate Indian state on November 9, 2000. It celebrates the state’s culture, heritage, and progress since its inception, often marked by official ceremonies. | Uttarakhand |
| November 14, 2025 | Children’s Day (Bal Diwas) | Observed nationwide in India. This day marks the birth anniversary of India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (1889–1964). He was known for his deep affection for children, referring to them as the future of the nation. Schools often organize cultural programs and events for students. | National (schools may have events or a holiday) |
| November 15, 2025 | Jharkhand Foundation Day | Celebrates the establishment of Jharkhand as an independent Indian state on November 15, 2000. The day highlights the state’s unique tribal culture and its journey of development since its formation. Official events mark the occasion. | Jharkhand |
| November 24, 2025 | Shaheedi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji | Remembers the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621–1675), the ninth of the Ten Gurus of Sikhism. He was executed for refusing to convert to Islam, upholding religious freedom and human rights. This day is observed with solemn prayers and remembrance. | Delhi, Punjab, and other regions with significant Sikh populations |
Staying informed about school holidays helps students and families plan effectively. Always refer to official notices from school administrations or state education authorities for the most precise and localized holiday information.