Basant Panchami 2026 — celebrated in India as a festival honoring Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and arts — falls on Friday, 23 January 2026. It is a widely observed cultural and religious occasion marking the onset of spring.
Schools Closed in Uttar Pradesh on Basant Panchami 2026
In Uttar Pradesh, the Basic Education Council has restored the Basant Panchami holiday in the 2026 school calendar for government-run primary and upper-primary schools. As a result, schools under the council in UP will remain closed on 23 January 2026. This decision follows recent protests when the holiday was omitted in the 2025 calendar, leading to its reinstatement for 2026.
Status of School Holiday in Delhi and Other States
In Delhi, no official notice has been issued so far confirming a full school holiday for Basant Panchami 2026. Government schools may continue regular classes unless individual schools announce specific programmes or half-day events for Saraswati Puja. For Punjab, there is no widespread announcement of an official Basant Panchami school holiday. Schools in different states decide holidays based on local government notifications and school management policies.
Why Schools May Not Always Close?
Although Basant Panchami is traditionally significant — students and teachers often worship books and instruments to seek blessings for academic success — school holiday policies vary by state and institution. In many areas, schools continue regular sessions but may organise special Saraswati Puja activities or cultural programmes during the school day.
What Parents and Students Should Know?
Parents and students should:
- Check official notices issued by their local education boards or school administrations for holiday information.
- Be aware that private schools may set their own decisions on holidays or special events.
- Plan celebrations and Saraswati Puja at home or in community settings if schools remain open.
Overall, while Basant Panchami 2026 is a culturally significant day observed on 23 January 2026, school closures apply only in some areas like Uttar Pradesh, with others following their own academic calendar rules.