In 2025, Dussehra (Mahashtami) will be observed on Tuesday, 30th September. Known as one of the most important days of Durga Puja, Mahashtami is celebrated with great devotion across eastern India, particularly in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Bihar. The day is marked by grand rituals, community gatherings, and cultural events. Devotees perform Anjali (offering of flowers) to Goddess Durga, and many observe fasting. Schools, offices, and public places in these regions come alive with decorated pandals, dhak beats, and traditional festivities. According to the Government of India calendar, Mahashtami is listed as a Restricted Holiday (RH), giving employees the option to avail leave depending on their organisation’s policy.
📜 Holiday Status
Dussehra (Mahashtami) on 30th September 2025 is marked as a Restricted Holiday (RH) in the Government of India calendar. It is not a nationwide Gazetted Holiday, but in West Bengal and other eastern states, local state holidays or partial closures may be observed due to Durga Puja. Central government offices remain open unless employees opt for RH.
✨ Significance of Mahashtami
Mahashtami is considered the most powerful day of Durga Puja. On this day, the Goddess is worshipped in her fierce form as Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura. The day begins with “Pushpanjali” (flower offerings) and rituals like Kumari Puja, where young girls are revered as embodiments of the Goddess. Many devotees also observe strict fasting as a mark of devotion.
🎉 How People Celebrate
In Bengal, Mahashtami is the highlight of Durga Puja. Thousands gather at pandals to participate in Pushpanjali, listen to dhak (drum beats), and enjoy cultural performances. Women dress in traditional sarees, and children participate in puja activities. In Assam, Odisha, and Bihar too, Mahashtami sees elaborate rituals and festive gatherings. Navratri celebrations in other parts of India include Garba and Dandiya dances, devotional singing, and temple visits.
🗓️ Leave Planning
Since Mahashtami 2025 falls on Tuesday, employees who wish to enjoy an extended festive break can combine it with Saptami (Monday, 29th September) and Navami (Wednesday, 1st October). With Gandhi Jayanti (2nd October, Thursday) being a Gazetted Holiday, this entire week offers one of the longest festive leave opportunities of the year. To plan smarter, check our Smart Leave Planner.
🏛️ Daily Life Impact
Here’s how Mahashtami observance may affect daily life on 30th September 2025:
| Sector / Service | Status on 30th September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Government Offices (Central) | Open (employees may opt for RH) |
| Banks | Open in most states; partial closures in Durga Puja regions |
| Schools & Colleges | Closed in West Bengal and some eastern states, open elsewhere |
| Stock Market (NSE/BSE) | Open |
| Post Offices | Open nationwide |
| Local Markets/Shops | Open, though many may close in Bengal due to Puja festivities |
🌙 Regional Observance
Mahashtami is observed most elaborately in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Tripura, and Bihar as part of Durga Puja. In North and West India, Navratri celebrations continue with Garba, Dandiya, and temple festivities, but Mahashtami does not carry the same prominence as in Bengal. South India observes Navratri with Golu displays and devotional gatherings.
📖 Interesting Facts
- Mahashtami is considered the most sacred day of Durga Puja.
- The Kumari Puja ritual, where young girls are worshipped as the Goddess, is a key highlight of Mahashtami.
- In 2025, Mahashtami falls on a Tuesday, right before Navami and Gandhi Jayanti.
- Many devotees observe complete fasting on Mahashtami to honour the Goddess.
💌 Mahashtami Wishes
- May Maa Durga’s divine blessings fill your life with courage and happiness. Happy Mahashtami 2025!
- On this auspicious Mahashtami, may your heart be filled with devotion and peace.
- Wishing you and your family strength, prosperity, and joy this Durga Puja Mahashtami.
- Celebrate Mahashtami with faith and togetherness. Maa Durga bless you always!
❓ FAQs
Q. Is Mahashtami a Gazetted Holiday in 2025?
No, Mahashtami is listed as a Restricted Holiday. However, some states declare public holidays for Durga Puja.
Q. Will banks remain closed on Mahashtami 2025?
Banks will remain open across India, except in certain regions like West Bengal where state holidays apply.
Q. Is the stock market open on 30th September 2025?
Yes, NSE and BSE will remain open on Mahashtami.
Q. What rituals are performed on Mahashtami?
Pushpanjali, Kumari Puja, fasting, and grand community prayers are the main rituals of Mahashtami.