In 2025, Dussehra (Vijayadashami) will be observed on Thursday, 2nd October. It is one of the most important Hindu festivals, symbolising the victory of good over evil. The day marks the triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana in the epic Ramayana, and also celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura. In 2025, the significance of Vijayadashami is even greater because it coincides with Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, making 2nd October a double Gazetted Holiday in India. Schools, offices, banks, and government institutions nationwide will remain closed.
📜 Holiday Status
Dussehra (Vijayadashami) on 2nd October 2025 is a Gazetted Holiday (GH). Interestingly, the same date also marks Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti, which is another nationwide Gazetted Holiday. As a result, all central and state government offices, banks, schools, and many private organisations will remain closed.
✨ Significance of Vijayadashami
Vijayadashami, or Dussehra, symbolises the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil). In northern India, it commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, marked by Ram Leela performances and the burning of Ravana effigies. In Bengal and eastern states, it marks the immersion (Visarjan) of Goddess Durga idols after the Durga Puja celebrations. In South India, it is celebrated as the culmination of Navratri with Saraswati Puja and Ayudha Puja rituals.
🎉 How People Celebrate
Celebrations vary across regions but carry the same underlying message of righteousness and renewal:
- North India: Ram Leela performances, Ravana effigy burning, fairs, and processions.
- East India: Durga idol immersion (Visarjan), cultural gatherings, and feasts.
- South India: Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja, with tools, books, and instruments being worshipped.
- West India: Garba and Dandiya Raas during Navratri culminate on this day.
🗓️ Leave Planning
Since 2nd October 2025 is a Gazetted Holiday nationwide (for both Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra), it creates a mid-week break. Employees may combine leave with weekends or other nearby restricted holidays to plan longer vacations or religious observances. To plan smarter, check our Smart Leave Planner.
🏛️ Daily Life Impact
Here’s how the dual Gazetted Holidays on 2nd October 2025 will affect daily life:
| Sector / Service | Status on 2nd October 2025 |
|---|---|
| Government Offices | Closed nationwide (GH) |
| Banks | Closed nationwide (GH) |
| Schools & Colleges | Closed nationwide |
| Stock Market (NSE/BSE) | Closed |
| Post Offices | Closed nationwide |
| Local Markets/Shops | Mostly closed |
🌙 Regional Observance
The dual observance of Gandhi Jayanti and Vijayadashami makes 2nd October 2025 special across India. In northern and western states, Ram Leela and Dussehra fairs dominate. In eastern India, Durga Puja immersion ceremonies take place. In southern states, Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja rituals mark the day. Additionally, Gandhi Jayanti adds a dimension of national remembrance with prayer services, cleanliness drives, and tributes to the Father of the Nation.
📖 Interesting Facts
- In 2025, Vijayadashami and Gandhi Jayanti fall on the same day — a rare double Gazetted Holiday.
- Dussehra is one of the few festivals observed with equal importance across India, though traditions differ.
- Stock markets (NSE/BSE) remain closed on this day.
- The day symbolises both cultural victory (Rama over Ravana) and spiritual victory (Durga over Mahishasura).
💌 Vijayadashami Wishes
- May this Dussehra bring you prosperity, happiness, and the victory of good over evil.
- Happy Vijayadashami 2025! Celebrate with devotion, joy, and unity.
- On this auspicious day, may Lord Rama and Goddess Durga bless you with strength and wisdom.
- Wishing you a Dussehra filled with family, faith, and festivities.
❓ FAQs
Q. Is Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2025 a Gazetted Holiday?
Yes, it is a nationwide Gazetted Holiday. The same date also marks Gandhi Jayanti, another Gazetted Holiday.
Q. Will banks and government offices be closed on 2nd October 2025?
Yes, banks, schools, and all government offices will remain closed across India.
Q. Will the stock market remain open on Dussehra 2025?
No, both NSE and BSE will remain closed on 2nd October 2025.
Q. Why is Dussehra celebrated?
Dussehra marks the victory of good over evil — Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura.