Maharashtra Schools to Get 13-Day Diwali Vacation From November 2; Classes Resume on November 16
Schools across Maharashtra will remain closed for a 13-day Diwali vacation from November 2 to November 14, 2026. The break will apply to recognised primary, secondary and higher secondary schools, including junior colleges offering Classes 11 and 12, as well as private and aided institutions.
Schools will reopen for the second term on Monday, November 16, 2026.
The vacation will cover major festive occasions, including Dhanteras on November 6, Diwali Padwa or Balipratipada on November 10, and Bhaubij on November 11.
According to the academic calendar for 2026-27, the first term began on June 15, 2026, and will end on October 31. The second term will run from November 16, 2026, to May 1, 2027. Summer vacation is scheduled from May 3 to June 14, 2027, with the next academic year set to begin on June 15, 2027.
Under the Secondary School Code, the total number of holidays in an academic year must not exceed 76 days, while schools are required to complete at least 230 working days. Schools cannot change the announced vacation dates independently. Any adjustments for local festivals, such as Ganeshotsav or Christmas, require prior permission from the local Education Officer.
Headmasters can grant up to three discretionary local holidays, provided these are officially registered with the Education Officer.
The long vacation does not apply to non-teaching staff, except laboratory assistants and attendants. Other non-teaching personnel will remain eligible for regular public holidays during this period.
The advance announcement is intended to help parents, students and teachers plan travel and family commitments around the Diwali break.
