Tamil Nadu Diwali Holiday: It's A Holiday For Students & Govt Employees On Tuesday

With Diwali falling on Monday, October 20 this year, voices from across Tamil Nadu-government employees, teachers, and students alike were urging the state government to declare Tuesday, October 21 as a holiday too.

Responding to their request, the Stalin government has announced a public holiday on October 21 for all government offices, schools, colleges, and public sector undertakings across the state.

The festive weekend already included Saturday, Sunday and Monday (October 18, 19 and 20) for schools, but since Diwali celebrations typically peak late into Monday night with fireworks and family gatherings, many wanted an extra day to rest, travel, and return safely.

Travel Woes and Family Time
Tamil Nadu Higher Secondary School Graduate Teachers Association President Malaikozhundhan had earlier highlighted the practical challenges. "Most teachers and government staff head to their hometowns with their families for Diwali. On October 21, public transport is likely to be packed, and students traveling from hostels and colleges will face the same issue," he said.

Granting a holiday on October 21, he added, would ease travel congestion, allow families to celebrate without stress, and help schools resume normal operations smoothly the following day.

As per the Tamil Nadu government's press release, since the Deepavali festival falls on October 20, 2025, many students, teachers, government employees, and public sector staff will be traveling to their hometowns and returning thereafter.

"Taking their convenience and well-being into consideration, the Government of Tamil Nadu has declared October 21, 2025 (Tuesday) as a one-day holiday To compensate for this holiday, October 25, 2025 (Saturday)will be observed as a working day," the statement said.

Last year too, the government had shown flexibility by extending holidays around Diwali, allowing families to celebrate and travel without the usual rush. That gesture has sparked hope again this year, as many await a similar announcement.