📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Shagil Kannur
Religion
Kerala Declares Oct 19 Public Holiday for Durgashtami
✍️ Onmanorama
🗓 16 Oct 2026, 10:37 PM
👁 12
The Kerala government has announced a public holiday on 19 October to observe Durgashtami, a major Hindu festival.
The Kerala government has declared 19 October a public holiday to observe Durgashtami, the ninth day of the Navaratri festival. The announcement was made through an official press release on the state’s website. The holiday will affect public sector employees, schools, and government offices, allowing citizens to participate in the celebrations.
Durgashtami marks the triumph of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and is widely celebrated across India with prayers, processions, and cultural programs. Kerala has a long tradition of granting holidays for major religious festivals, ensuring that people can observe these occasions with their families.
The decision reflects the state’s commitment to respecting religious diversity and supporting cultural practices. The holiday is expected to boost local tourism and cultural activities in temples and community centers throughout the state.
Durgashtami marks the triumph of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and is widely celebrated across India with prayers, processions, and cultural programs. Kerala has a long tradition of granting holidays for major religious festivals, ensuring that people can observe these occasions with their families.
The decision reflects the state’s commitment to respecting religious diversity and supporting cultural practices. The holiday is expected to boost local tourism and cultural activities in temples and community centers throughout the state.