Odisha Declares Extra Diwali Holiday for Colleges and Universities on October 20

In a festive gesture aimed at enhancing cultural celebration, the Odisha government has announced an additional holiday for all state public universities and colleges under the Higher Education Department on Monday, October 20, 2025.

The move allows students and faculty to fully participate in Diwali festivities without academic disruption.

The official notification (No. 56535/HE), issued by Deputy Director Rajata Kumar Mansingh of the Planning and Training Cell, references prior alerts from the Revenue and Disaster Management Department and a departmental letter from December 2024.

It clarifies that this extra day off will substitute one of the remaining local holidays, ensuring no change in the annual holiday quota.

However, institutions in the Nuapada district are excluded from this closure, likely due to localised administrative considerations.

Authorities have urged colleges and universities to promptly inform students and adjust any scheduled academic activities.

“This additional holiday will enable our youth to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of Diwali, fostering cultural continuity alongside their studies,” said a senior department spokesperson.