October 2024 School Holidays: From Gandhi Jayanti to Diwali, Key Dates for Students

Representative Image. (Getty Images)

As October 2024 approaches, students and parents are eagerly anticipating the upcoming school holidays. This month is packed with significant holidays and events that provide a much-needed break from the academic routine. Here’s a detailed look at the school holidays in October 2024, complete with descriptive subheads to help you navigate through the month.
Gandhi Jayanti and Mahalya Amavasya: A Day of Reflection and New Beginnings
The month kicks off with Gandhi Jayanti on Wednesday, October 2nd, a national holiday in India commemorating the birth of Mahatma Gandhi.Schools across the country will be closed, allowing students and families to participate in various activities that honor Gandhi’s legacy. Many schools organize special events, including essay competitions, art exhibitions, and community service projects, to instill the values of peace and non-violence in students.
On the same day, Mahalya Amavasya is observed, marking the end of the Pitru Paksha period and the beginning of the Devi Paksha. This day is significant for many Hindu families who perform rituals to honor their ancestors.
Durga Puja Festivities: Maha Saptami to Vijaya Dashami
The second week of October is marked by the grand celebrations of Durga Puja, one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. The festivities begin with Maha Saptami on Thursday, October 10th, followed by Maha Ashtami on Friday, October 11th, and Maha Navami on Saturday, October 12th. The celebrations culminate with Vijaya Dashami on Sunday, October 13th, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil.

During these days, schools in many regions will be closed to allow students and their families to participate in the festivities. These holidays are a time for cultural immersion, with traditional dances, music, and rituals taking center stage. Many families travel to their hometowns to celebrate with loved ones, making it a joyous and vibrant period.
Valmiki Jayanti and Lakshmi Puja: Honoring Legends and Deities
On Thursday, October 17th, schools will observe holidays for Valmiki Jayanti and Lakshmi Puja (Bengali). Valmiki Jayanti celebrates the birth of the sage Valmiki, the author of the epic Ramayana. Schools often organize special assemblies and storytelling sessions to educate students about Valmiki’s contributions to Indian literature and culture.
Lakshmi Puja, particularly significant in Bengali households, is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. This day is marked by elaborate rituals and prayers, and schools in regions with a significant Bengali population will be closed to allow families to celebrate.
Diwali Preparations: Anticipating the Festival of Lights
As October draws to a close, preparations for Diwali, the Festival of Lights, begin in earnest. Diwali falls on Thursday, October 31st this year, and schools will be closed to allow families to celebrate this auspicious festival. Diwali is a time for family gatherings, lighting lamps, and enjoying festive foods. Schools often organize special assemblies and activities to educate students about the significance of Diwali, and some may have a few days off leading up to the festival to allow families to prepare.