Introduction
October 2, 2025, carries double significance in India—celebrated both as Gandhi Jayanti, honoring the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, and Dussehra, a major Hindu festival. These twin occasions will result in widespread public and private sector closures across the nation. Services ranging from stock markets to educational institutions and liquor outlets will observe restrictions or complete shutdowns. However, the exact schedule of closures may vary from state to state, based on regional festivals and local administrative decisions.
Financial Services and Stock Exchanges
Trading Activities Halted for the Day
India’s major stock exchanges, including the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE), will remain non-operational on October 2. All trading activities under equity, derivatives, and securities lending and borrowing (SLB) segments will be suspended.
However, markets related to currency and interest rate derivatives will function as per usual schedules.
Banking Sector
Nationwide Bank Closures
Being a gazetted national holiday, all public and private sector banks across India will remain closed on October 2 in observance of Gandhi Jayanti. Customers are advised to complete banking transactions in advance or utilize online banking services during the holiday.
Alcohol Sales and Public Establishments
Dry Day Declared Across the Country
October 2 has traditionally been observed as a dry day in India due to Gandhi Jayanti, and 2025 is no exception. The dry day declaration also coincides with Dussehra celebrations, strengthening enforcement. As a result, liquor shops, bars, pubs, and licensed restaurants will not be permitted to sell or serve alcohol.
School and College Holidays: State-Wise Overview
West Bengal: Extended Festive Break
In West Bengal, schools have announced the longest holiday break, from September 26 to October 7, due to Durga Puja festivities. The situation was compounded by heavy rains and flooding in Kolkata and surrounding areas, leading to additional closures on September 24 and 25. Institutions are expected to resume normal operations only after October 7.
Delhi: Brief Autumn Recess
The Directorate of Education in Delhi has declared an autumn break from September 29 to October 1. In addition, October 2 will be observed as a holiday for both Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra. Schools are scheduled to reopen on October 3, with private institutions expected to follow a similar calendar, allowing for minor deviations.
Andhra Pradesh: Political Push Shapes Holiday
In Andhra Pradesh, government schools will remain closed from September 22 to October 2. The extended break came in response to political lobbying by Members of the Legislative Council, who appealed to HRD Minister Nara Lokesh. Their intervention led to adjustments in the academic calendar to accommodate festival participation.
Telangana: Festivities Begin Early
Schools in Telangana have been closed since September 21 and are set to reopen on October 3, adhering to the state’s academic schedule, which traditionally allows ample time for local religious celebrations.
Uttar Pradesh: District-Wise Variation
In Uttar Pradesh, school closure schedules are not uniform. Many districts will observe holidays from September 27 to October 2, while others may allow shorter breaks. Parents are urged to verify exact dates with individual schools, as holiday patterns are determined locally.
Maharashtra: Mixed Calendar Due to Rainfall and Dussehra
Several districts in Maharashtra declared holidays on September 29 for Dussehra, with some schools like those in Palghar experiencing earlier closures due to heavy rainfall. Most educational institutions will remain shut on October 2 and are expected to reopen based on decisions from local education authorities.
Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, and Odisha: Region-Specific Holidays
In Bihar and Jharkhand, schools have been closed since September 27, with reopening scheduled after October 2. States like Assam and Odisha follow district-specific holiday calendars, which are often influenced by local religious festivals or administrative considerations.
Conclusion
October 2, 2025, will witness a nationwide pause in many essential services and public activities, reflecting the cultural and historical importance of Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra. From financial markets and educational institutions to liquor shops and government offices, India will come to a temporary standstill as citizens observe these momentous occasions with reverence and celebration.
