Schools in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh will remain closed on October 7, 2025, in observance of Valmiki Jayanti, a day that celebrates the birth anniversary of Maharishi Valmiki, the revered sage and author of the epic Ramayana. The day is recognised as a public holiday in several states across India, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh. Government offices, schools, and some private institutions will observe the closure as part of the official state calendar.
I am writing about this because Valmiki Jayanti is not just another public holiday—it carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning for millions of people. It honours the teachings of Maharishi Valmiki, who is celebrated as the first poet (Adi Kavi) in Sanskrit literature. Understanding the significance of such observances reminds us how cultural traditions continue to shape modern Indian society. For students, these holidays are also opportunities to learn about great figures from history and literature who influenced India’s moral and philosophical foundations.
Holiday Declared in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh
According to official government notifications, all government and most private schools in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh will remain closed on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, in honour of Valmiki Jayanti.
The Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued a circular confirming that all schools under the Delhi government, including those run by municipal corporations, will not conduct classes on this day. Similarly, the Uttar Pradesh government has included the date in its official list of public holidays for the 2025 academic year.
Along with schools, most state government offices, courts, and local administrative departments will also observe the holiday. However, essential services such as hospitals, emergency facilities, and transport will function as usual.
Who Was Maharishi Valmiki?
Maharishi Valmiki is one of the most revered figures in Indian history and literature. Often called the “Adi Kavi” (the first poet), he is credited with composing the Ramayana, one of the greatest epics of ancient India. The Ramayana narrates the life and journey of Lord Rama, serving as a moral and spiritual guide for generations.
Valmiki’s life story is also seen as a powerful example of transformation. It is believed that he was once a robber who later renounced violence after meeting sage Narada and devoted his life to penance and poetry. His journey from darkness to enlightenment continues to inspire millions across the world.
Valmiki Jayanti, therefore, symbolises not only devotion and creativity but also redemption and self-realisation.
Significance of Valmiki Jayanti
Valmiki Jayanti is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Ashwin month according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which usually falls in October. The day is celebrated with devotion, prayer meetings, and community programmes across India.
In Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and other northern states, devotees visit Valmiki temples to offer prayers and listen to recitations from the Ramayana. In many schools and colleges, cultural programmes and poetry sessions are organised to honour the sage’s contributions to literature and moral philosophy.
Celebrations Across India
The celebration of Valmiki Jayanti extends beyond schools and government institutions. Across India, particularly in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka, community events are organised to promote Valmiki’s teachings on righteousness, compassion, and social equality.
Many devotees also participate in processions known as Shobha Yatras, carrying portraits and scriptures of Maharishi Valmiki while singing devotional songs. In educational institutions, students often participate in essay writing, debates, and storytelling sessions based on the Ramayana and Valmiki’s life.
Why Valmiki Jayanti Matters for Education
Valmiki Jayanti holds special importance in the education sector because Maharishi Valmiki represents the ideals of wisdom, creativity, and moral learning. His poetic mastery and philosophical insights make him a timeless symbol of intellectual excellence.
By observing this holiday, schools provide students an opportunity to learn about the origins of Indian literature, the art of storytelling, and the values embedded in epics like the Ramayana. For teachers, it’s also a chance to discuss themes of courage, honesty, and humanity that remain central to Valmiki’s writings.
Public Transport and Services
While schools and government offices will remain closed, public transport in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh will continue to operate normally. Metro services, buses, and trains will run as per regular schedules. However, some government institutions may function with limited staff, and public banks will remain closed depending on regional notifications.
States Observing Valmiki Jayanti as a Public Holiday
Apart from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, several other states and union territories have declared Valmiki Jayanti (October 7, 2025) as a public holiday, including:
- Haryana
- Punjab
- Madhya Pradesh
- Himachal Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Chandigarh
Each region celebrates the day through a mix of cultural and religious observances, reflecting the diverse ways in which Valmiki’s legacy is honoured.
