September school holidays 2025: Check complete list of breaks for students
September in India is a month deeply intertwined with traditions, community celebrations, and seasonal transitions. For students, it often marks a busy academic phase with mid-term examinations, projects, and cultural programmes. Yet, it is also a period where schools may declare holidays to accommodate significant festivals and local occasions. From Onam in the south to Durga Puja in the east, and Id-e-Milad observed across various states, September brings together a diverse calendar of observances.It is, however, important to remember that school holidays are not uniform across India. Decisions depend on regional customs, education boards, and institutional policies. Parents and students should therefore verify the holiday schedule with their respective schools to avoid last-minute surprises.The holiday calendar in September reflects India’s cultural mosaic. Different states observe closures for festivals that hold religious, historical, or social significance. Below are some of the key dates that may influence school schedules this month:
Onam Celebrations (September 4–5, 2025)
Onam, Kerala’s grand harvest festival, begins with First Onam on September 4 and culminates with Thiruvonam on September 5. Schools across Kerala traditionally declare holidays for students to participate in cultural programmes, community feasts, and traditional games. This period is not only a cultural break but also an important time for younger generations to connect with Kerala’s heritage.
Id-e-Milad / Milad-un-Nabi (September 5–6, 2025)
Id-e-Milad, commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, falls on September 5 and 6 in several states. Schools in regions such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu may remain closed to mark the occasion. In northeastern states like Sikkim and Manipur, the festival is also significant, and closures may extend into September 6, coinciding with the observance of Indrajatra.
Friday Following Eid (September 12, 2025)
In Jammu and Srinagar, schools may remain closed on September 12, marking the traditional observance of the Friday following Eid. This day allows families to extend celebrations, combining faith with community gatherings.
Navratra Sthapna (September 22, 2025)
The festival season takes on a devotional tone in Rajasthan with Navratra Sthapna on September 22. Schools in the state may declare a holiday as households prepare for the nine days of worship dedicated to Goddess Durga. For students, this often coincides with a short academic pause before the longer Durga Puja holidays later in the month.
Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s birthday (September 23, 2025)
On September 23, Jammu and Srinagar commemorate the birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, a significant historical figure in the region. Schools may remain closed, offering students an opportunity to engage in discussions about local history and heritage.
Durga Puja and Associated Holidays (September 29–30, 2025)
The final week of September witnesses one of India’s most celebrated festivals—Durga Puja. On September 29, Maha Saptami is observed, and schools in states like West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam may declare holidays. This is followed by Maha Ashtami on September 30, which extends closures to Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and other eastern states. For many schools, these holidays continue into early October, creating an extended festive break.Possibility of long weekendsWith several holidays clustering around weekends, September 2025 may offer students a few extended breaks. For instance, the Onam–Id-e-Milad period (September 4–7) could result in a long holiday stretch in some southern states. Similarly, the Durga Puja holidays at the end of the month may align with weekends, providing a longer pause from school schedules. Such breaks are often welcomed by students balancing demanding academic routines.
