Schools Closed Oct 7 for Valmiki Jayanti in UP, Delhi

Students and faculty in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi will observe a public holiday on October 7, 2025 , for Valmiki Jayanti. This holiday extends to government offices in both states. For many in Uttar Pradesh, the observance of Valmiki Jayanti creates an extended long weekend, complementing a local holiday previously declared for October 6 .

Uttar Pradesh Confirms Valmiki Jayanti Holiday

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath formally announced October 7, 2025 , as a statewide public holiday. This declaration honors Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti, a day dedicated to the revered sage considered the author of the epic Ramayana. The state government’s decision followed specific requests from the Valmiki community, emphasizing the cultural and historical significance of the day.

Under this directive, all public and private schools, colleges, and state government offices across Uttar Pradesh will remain closed. This ensures that students, educators, and civil servants can participate in or acknowledge the observances. Adding to this, District Magistrate Manish Bansal had earlier issued a notification for a local holiday on October 6 in certain districts. This local closure is tied to the Maa Shakambhari Devi Mela. Consequently, students and government employees in these specific regions will enjoy a three-day holiday period, effectively from Sunday, October 5 , through Tuesday, October 7 .

Delhi Government Also Declares October 7 Holiday

The government of Delhi has also confirmed the designation of October 7, 2025 , as a public holiday. Multiple reports indicate that Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta officially acknowledged and confirmed this holiday status. The declaration means all educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, colleges, and other learning centers, along with government administrative offices, will close within the National Capital Territory. This move ensures widespread observance of Valmiki Jayanti across the capital.

Significance of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti

Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, an iconic figure in ancient Indian literature and spiritual tradition. He holds the title of Adi Kavi, or ‘first poet,’ for his monumental work, the Ramayana. This Sanskrit epic, comprised of thousands of verses, meticulously chronicles the virtuous life and extraordinary adventures of Prince Rama of Ayodhya. On this day, followers typically engage in spiritual activities, including special prayers, religious discourses, and cultural programs. These events often highlight Valmiki’s profound wisdom, his literary genius, and the timeless moral lessons embedded within the Ramayana, fostering a deeper understanding of Indian heritage.

Key October 2025 Holidays for Students and Staff

Beyond Valmiki Jayanti, October 2025 is marked by several other important festivals and public holidays. Students, parents, and school staff should be aware of these dates as they may affect educational schedules and services. Individual schools and local authorities will issue specific notifications regarding closures for these festivals, which include major celebrations like Durga Puja, Gandhi Jayanti, Dussehra, Dhanteras, and Diwali. This comprehensive list helps in planning academic and personal calendars.

Date Festival
October 1 Durga Puja (Navami Puja)
October 2 Gandhi Jayanti & Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra)
October 7 Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti
October 18 Dhanteras
October 20 Naraka Chaturdasi
October 21 Diwali
October 22 Govardhan Puja
October 23 Bhai Dooj
October 27 Hal Shashthi (Lalai Chhath)
October 28 Chhath Puja