Bhubaneswar, Oct 18: The Odisha government on Saturday announced October 20, 2025, as an additional public holiday for Diwali, revising its earlier declaration that had fixed October 21 as the festival day. The decision comes following the recommendation of the Mukti Mandap Pandit Sabha of Puri, which advised that Diwali should be celebrated on October 20 this year.

In a notification issued by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department (RDM-Reg-MISC-0013-2024-39041), the state government stated that all government offices and executive magistrate courts across Odisha will remain closed on October 20, except in Nuapada district, where offices will function as usual.

To balance the additional holiday, the government has declared the fourth Saturday, October 25, 2025, as a working day for all state offices. This adjustment ensures administrative efficiency while allowing employees to celebrate the festival.

The move reflects the government’s responsiveness to cultural and religious consultations, ensuring the Diwali holiday aligns with traditional observances. Citizens across the state have welcomed the decision, as it allows them to celebrate the festival of lights in accordance with religious customs and local sentiments.

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