School Holidays in September 2025: Rain, Festivals, and Closures Explained

Why Are Schools Closing Across India in September 2025?

As September 2025 unfolds, heavy monsoon rains and vibrant regional festivals like Eid-e-Milad, Onam, and Ganesh Visarjan are triggering school closures across India. With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing red and orange alerts for states like Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, safety concerns are paramount. Meanwhile, cultural celebrations offer students a chance to engage in traditions like Kerala's Onam feasts or Maharashtra's Ganesh processions. Why does this matter now? These closures reflect a unique intersection of nature’s unpredictability and India’s rich cultural tapestry, impacting millions of students and families. This article breaks down the state-wise holiday list, key festival dates, and weather-related updates to keep parents and students informed.

Key School Holiday Dates in September 2025

Early September: Rain and Regional Festivals

Heavy rainfall has led to widespread school closures, particularly in northern states. On September 3–7, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir have extended holidays due to flooding and landslides, with rivers like the Jhelum and Chenab overflowing. In Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura, schools were closed on September 4–5 due to waterlogging.

• September 2: Teja Dashmi and Ramdev Jayanti prompt closures in Rajasthan, alongside rain-related holidays in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.

• September 4–5: Kerala celebrates Onam, a 10-day harvest festival with school holidays for cultural events like snake boat races and Thiruvathirakali dances.

• September 5–6: Eid-e-Milad (Milad-un-Nabi), marking Prophet Muhammad’s birth, leads to closures in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and northeastern states like Sikkim. Teacher’s Day on September 5 is typically a half-day with school events.

• September 6: Ganesh Visarjan in Telangana (Hyderabad, Secunderabad) and Maharashtra results in holidays for procession safety.

Mid-to-Late September: Cultural and Religious Observances

As the monsoon season continues, festivals dominate the calendar:

• September 7: Anant Chaturdashi, tied to Ganesh Chaturthi’s conclusion, closes schools in Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka.

• September 12: Jammu and Srinagar observe a holiday for the Friday after Eid, supporting community gatherings.

• September 17: Vishwakarma Puja leads to closures in West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Assam, honoring the divine architect.

• September 21: Samvatsari, a Jain festival of forgiveness, affects schools in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra.

• September 22: Navratra Sthapana in Rajasthan marks the start of Durga worship.

• September 23: Maharaja Hari Singh Jayanti closes schools in Jammu & Kashmir.

• September 27: Mahalaya Amavasya and the start of Bathukamma in Telangana bring holidays in eastern and southern states.

• September 29–30: Navratri and Durga Puja lead to closures in Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, and Odisha.

Why This Matters: Balancing Safety and Culture

September 2025 highlights India’s dynamic response to environmental and cultural demands. The IMD’s red alerts for northern states underscore the need for proactive school closures to protect students from floods and landslides. Simultaneously, festivals like Eid-e-Milad and Onam foster community bonding and cultural pride, offering students immersive learning experiences outside the classroom. For parents, these frequent breaks require planning around academic schedules and mid-term exams, as noted by Zee News. Staying updated on local school circulars is crucial, as holiday schedules vary by state and institution.

Actionable Advice for Parents and Students

1. Check School Updates: Contact your school or check official circulars for precise closure dates, as regional variations are common.

2. Stay Safe During Rains: Follow IMD alerts and local administration guidelines, especially in flood-prone areas like Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.

3. Engage in Festivals: Use holiday time to participate in cultural events like Onam’s pookalam-making or Eid-e-Milad processions, enriching family traditions.

4. Plan Academically: With mid-term exams looming, create a study schedule to balance festive celebrations and academic responsibilities.

The Bigger Picture: A Month of Resilience and Celebration

September 2025 is more than just a series of holidays; it’s a testament to India’s ability to adapt to nature’s challenges while honoring its cultural heritage. From the vibrant boat races of Onam to the solemn prayers of Eid-e-Milad, students are at the heart of these traditions. Yet, the heavy rains remind us of the need for vigilance and preparedness. As the month progresses, expect more updates on weather conditions and festival celebrations shaping the academic calendar.