The Keralam government has declared October 19, 2026, a public holiday on account of Durgashtami. Schools, colleges and other educational institutions across the state will remain closed on Monday, giving students an extended break ahead of the Durga Puja holidays on October 20 and 21.The General Administration Department issued an order declaring October 19 a public holiday.According to the government order, the holiday will apply to the following institutions:
- Government and quasi-government offices
- Public sector undertakings
- Institutions covered under the Negotiable Instruments Act
- Schools and colleges
- Professional educational institutions
Students and staff are advised to check with their respective institutions for any additional instructions regarding the holiday.
Dussehra holiday 2026: School closures in other states
School holidays for Dussehra and Vijayadashami will vary across India depending on state and district schedules.According to media reports, schools in Telangana will remain closed until October 22 for the Dasara vacation. Schools in West Bengal will remain closed until October 26 for the Durga Puja celebrations.Schools and colleges in Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi National Capital Region are also expected to remain closed on October 20 for Dussehra.The additional holiday in Keralam on October 19 gives students and staff more time off ahead of the festive period.