Maharashtra to have a nine-day holiday for educational institutions for the Navratri festival

The Maharashtra government has taken an important decision for this year's Navratri festival. All schools, colleges and educational institutions in the state have been declared holidays during the nine-day period of Navratri. This news is a great joy for students and parents, as this will allow them to celebrate the festival of Navratri with enthusiasm and freedom.
Importance of Navratri Festival
Navratri is a major festival in Hinduism, which is celebrated for nine nights and ten days. Various forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped during this period. In Maharashtra, the festival of Navratri is especially famous for Garba and Dandiya dances, special pujas in temples and social programs. This year, the festival will begin from October 3, 2025 and will conclude with the Dussehra festival on October 11, 2025.
Holiday decision and its consequences
The state government has decided to grant holidays to educational institutions during Navratri, which will allow students to fully participate in the festival. This decision will give students and teachers enough time to participate in cultural and religious programs. Apart from this, this holiday will reduce the academic pressure in schools and colleges and give students an opportunity to relax and spend time with their families.
Planning of educational institutions
The education department has directed all schools and colleges to plan academic activities during this holiday period. Some institutions have decided to give online assignments or projects during this period, so that students do not suffer academic losses. Also, some schools have decided to organize cultural programs based on the theme of Navratri, so that students can enjoy the festival and at the same time make them aware of cultural values.
Reaction from parents and students
The decision has been welcomed by parents and students. A parent from Mumbai said, "This decision is very good. Our children will now get enough time to celebrate the festival. This will allow them to be stress-free and share moments of joy with their families." A college student from Pune said, "We can participate in Garba and Dandiya programs during Navratri. This holiday is very special for us."
Government's Objective
While taking this decision, the government has emphasized on preserving cultural heritage as well as maintaining the mental health of students. The Education Minister said, "Navratri is an integral part of our culture. By giving students a holiday during this festival, we are trying to connect them with our traditions and create cultural awareness among them."
Some Challenges
Due to this holiday, some schools and colleges will have to reorganize their academic schedule. Especially students in the final year of class XII and graduation will have to make extra efforts to prepare for the exams. For this, the Education Department has promised to provide online resources and guidance to schools.