The Odisha government has officially announced a two-day holiday for Diwali celebrations, bringing festive cheer to employees and students across the state. The extended break will allow people to fully immerse themselves in the Festival of Lights with their families and loved ones.
Official Holiday Declaration
In a recent notification issued by the General Administration Department, the state government confirmed that all government offices and educational institutions will remain closed on both Monday and Tuesday. This decision comes as welcome news for thousands of government employees and students who were eagerly awaiting the official holiday schedule.
Complete Holiday Schedule
The detailed holiday breakdown is as follows:
- Monday: Full day holiday for all government offices and educational institutions
- Tuesday: Continued holiday extending the Diwali celebrations
- Exception: Offices engaged in essential and emergency services will maintain normal operations
Impact on Various Sectors
The two-day holiday will affect multiple sectors across Odisha:
Government Offices
All state government offices will observe complete closure during this period, allowing employees to celebrate the festival without work interruptions.
Educational Institutions
Schools, colleges, and other educational establishments will remain shut, giving students and teachers adequate time for family celebrations and traditional rituals.
Essential Services
While most offices will close, the government has made it clear that essential and emergency services will continue uninterrupted to ensure public welfare during the festive season.
Significance of the Extended Break
The two-day holiday acknowledges the importance of Diwali as one of the most significant festivals in Indian culture. The extended break provides ample opportunity for:
- Family gatherings and celebrations
- Traditional Lakshmi Puja ceremonies
- Community events and cultural programs
- Travel to native places for family reunions
The announcement has been met with widespread appreciation from citizens who can now plan their Diwali celebrations without worrying about work or academic commitments. The government's proactive approach in declaring the holidays well in advance has been particularly praised, as it allows for better planning and preparation for the festive occasion.
