Tamil Nadu Govt Declares Half-Day Holiday For Educational Institutions On Oct 30 Ahead Of Diwali

Earlier, Tamil Nadu government had declared a holiday on November 1, 2024, for government offices, public sector undertakings, schools, and colleges, marking the day after Diwali.

With this, Tamil Nadu government has ensured a continuous holiday period.

Source : Pixabay

The Tamil Nadu government has declared a half-day holiday for all schools, colleges, and educational institutions in the state on October 30, 2024, in celebration of Diwali. The announcement comes as a relief to students and staff, enabling them to partake in the festivities.

In a prior notice, the government had declared a holiday on November 1, 2024, for government offices, public sector undertakings, schools, and colleges, marking the day after Diwali. This decision also includes a shift of the originally scheduled October 31 holiday to November 1, ensuring a continuous holiday period.

Tamil Nadu Government announces half-day holiday for schools, colleges and educational institutions in Tamil Nadu on 30.10.2024, on the occasion of Diwali.

— ANI (@ANI) October 29, 2024

 

To compensate for the holiday, the state government confirmed that November 9, 2024, will be a working day for all government institutions and offices.

In Tamil Nadu, Diwali (a) Deepavali is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura.

The Diwali festivities in Tamil Nadu are marked by early morning oil baths, traditional celebrations and bursting of crackers at night. Diwali also sees heavy footfall in textile and sweet shops, which remain flooded with customers. The Sivakasi region, known for its booming firecracker industry, sees its peak business season during this period.

The festival holds particular significance for newlyweds, who celebrate Thala Diwali—their first Diwali after marriage—by receiving blessings and gifts from family and loved ones.

A unique tradition in Tamil Nadu is the art of creating 'Kolam'—intricate floor designs made with rice flour or colored powders. Temples throughout the city host special prayers and ceremonies, drawing devotees in search of blessings and spiritual fulfillment.

Some of the sweets and savouries prepared during Diwali include, Muruku, Adhirasam (a jaggery-based sweet dish made of rice flour), Sakkarai Pongal, Laddu, payasam and Thattai (savoury crispy snack).