“As September Approaches, a Diverse Array of Festivities and Observances Signal a School Calendar Break, Celebrating Educators and Religious Festivals”
As September commences, schools across India gear up for a series of culturally and educationally significant holidays. The month ushers in a diverse array of festivities and observances, signifying a break in the school calendar. These holidays range from honoring educators to commemorating religious festivals.
School Holidays in September 2023: A Closer Look
5 September: Teacher’s Day
On the 5th of September, India observes Teachers’ Day, a special day dedicated to honoring and recognizing educators for their invaluable contributions to society. This date coincides with the birth of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished philosopher and the second President of India, who believed in the transformative power of education. Students express their appreciation for their teachers through various activities, presentations, and heartfelt messages.
6 or 7 September: Janmashtami (state-specific)
Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu. The date varies based on the lunar calendar and is enthusiastically celebrated across India. In states where Janmashtami falls on September 6 or 7, schools grant students and faculty a day off to participate in the festivities, which include devotional songs, dance performances, and reenactments of Lord Krishna’s life.
September 8 to 10: G20 Meeting Holidays (only in Delhi)
The G20 Summit is a significant international gathering where leaders from the world’s major economies discuss global economic issues. This year’s summit is hosted in Delhi, India. While the summit involves high-level discussions, Delhi schools are expected to be closed from September 8 to 10 to accommodate the event and ease traffic congestion. This allows students to witness their nation’s involvement in global affairs.
19 September: The Festival of Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity. Families and communities install Ganesha idols, offer prayers, and organize processions before immersing the idols in bodies of water. On this day, schools observe a holiday, enabling students to partake in the festivities and understand the cultural significance of the celebration.
28 September: Milad un-Nabi/Id-e-Milad
Milad Muhammad, also known as Id-e-Milad, commemorates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. Due to its religious significance, the Muslim community observes this day with prayers, processions, and discussions about the Prophet’s life and teachings. Schools with a diverse student body declare a holiday to respect and facilitate the religious observances of Muslim students and faculty.