Schools across Delhi will not open their doors tomorrow, Tuesday, January 14, 2026. This closure, however, has nothing to do with a separate holiday for Makar Sankranti. The capital's educational institutions are already shut down for the winter vacation period.
Winter Vacation in Full Swing
The Directorate of Education, Government of Delhi, issued an official notice confirming the winter break. This vacation continues right through till January 15, 2026. Students, parents, and teachers can breathe easy. There is no need to scramble for a fresh holiday announcement for January 14.
All government schools and government-aided schools in Delhi are closed as part of this pre-declared winter break. Private schools in the city generally follow the same winter vacation schedule announced by the education authorities. Parents with children in private institutions are still advised to check with their individual schools for absolute confirmation, if they feel the need.
Understanding Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti is observed annually on January 14. It marks the Sun's transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn. This festival is celebrated under various names across different regions of India. In Tamil Nadu, people know it as Pongal. In Gujarat, it is called Uttarayan. Assam celebrates it as Magh Bihu.
The festival is deeply connected to the harvest season. Communities come together to celebrate with regional customs, special foods, and lively gatherings. Despite its cultural significance, it does not automatically mean a day off for Delhi's schools.
Is Makar Sankranti a School Holiday in Delhi?
For the current academic year, Makar Sankranti is not listed as a gazetted holiday for schools in the official notice from the Government of Delhi. On regular academic days, schools typically remain open unless a specific holiday is declared.
This year, the question of whether schools will close for Makar Sankranti simply does not apply. The winter vacation is already in effect, covering the date entirely. The Directorate of Education has clarified the situation. Schools will reopen only after the winter break concludes on January 15.
Regular classes will resume according to the standard school timetable starting from the first working day after the vacation period ends.
Key Information for Parents and Students
In summary, Delhi schools will be closed on Tuesday, January 14, 2026. This closure is solely because the winter vacation is still ongoing. It is not due to a separate holiday declaration for Makar Sankranti. Students will return to their classrooms only after the winter break officially ends.
This pre-planned schedule provides clarity and avoids any last-minute confusion for families across the capital. Everyone can plan their activities accordingly, knowing the academic calendar is proceeding as announced.
