The Odisha government on Saturday announced October 20 as an additional holiday for Diwali, alongside the previously declared October 21. This means government offices, schools, and institutions across most parts of the state will enjoy a two-day festive break this Diwali.
However, Nuapada district has been exempted from the additional holiday due to the upcoming bypoll, and government offices there will remain open on October 20, officials confirmed.
Additional Holiday and Schedule Adjustment
In its official notification, the state government clarified that October 25 (fourth Saturday) will now be observed as a working day to compensate for the extra holiday on October 20.
“Offices across the state shall remain closed on October 20, except in Nuapada district where offices will function as usual due to electoral duties,” the statement said.
Diwali Date Confusion Resolved
Earlier, confusion had arisen over the exact date of Diwali 2025. The Revenue Department had initially proposed October 20 as the festival day based on recommendations from the Srimandir Mukti Mandap Pandit Mahasabha, which noted that ‘Paya Shradha’ and ‘Deepadaana Shradha’ rituals commence on the evening of October 20.
Some traditional almanacs had suggested October 21 for Diwali, but religious scholars argued that this did not align with astrological and Hindu ritual norms.
The latest government decision aligns official observances with traditional Hindu practices, settling the debate and ensuring synchronization with temple rituals.
Two-Day Festive Celebration
The dual-holiday arrangement offers citizens extended time to celebrate Diwali and Kali Puja, while allowing institutions to adjust schedules smoothly. Families across the state can now prepare for the festival without any ambiguity over the dates.
Meanwhile, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Administration has issued a separate advisory restricting the bursting of firecrackers after 9 PM, revising the previous 10 PM limit to ensure reduced noise and air pollution during the celebrations.
