October 7 school holiday: Delhi and UP observe Valmiki Jayanti; Jammu and Kashmir schools closed due to heavy rain
Schools and colleges across several states, including Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, are closed today, October 7, 2025, to mark Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti, observed as the birth anniversary of the sage credited with composing the Ramayana. The day is a gazetted holiday in many states and union territories.In Delhi, the Directorate of Education (DoE) had earlier listed the day as a public holiday in its annual calendar. All government schools and offices are closed on Tuesday as per the schedule.In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a statewide public holiday to observe the occasion. “A public holiday will be observed in the state on October 7, the birth anniversary of Lord Valmiki. An uninterrupted recitation of the Ramayana will be organised in every temple,” the Chief Minister said in an official statement.
Significance of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti
Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti commemorates the birth of Maharishi Valmiki, regarded as the first poet in Sanskrit literature and the author of the Ramayana. According to Hindu belief, Valmiki was born to Varuna, the ninth son of Maharishi Kashyap and Aditi, and his wife Charshani. The day is marked with processions, Ramayana recitations, and cultural programmes in temples and institutions across several states.
Weather-related school closures in Jammu and Kashmir
In Jammu and Kashmir, schools will remain closed on October 6 and 7, though not in connection with Valmiki Jayanti. The administration ordered a two-day closure for government and private schools due to heavy rainfall and poor weather conditions. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious as adverse weather continues to affect normal activities in the region.Check the official notice here.
Precautionary advisory in Tamil Nadu
Meanwhile, in Tamil Nadu, schools reopened on Monday after the quarterly examination break. The state government has advised school managements to take precautionary measures for student safety during the monsoon period.With the combination of Valmiki Jayanti observance and weather-related disruptions in some northern states, several regions across India are witnessing an extended break for students this week.
