Did you know that during India's major festival, Dasara, schools and educational institutions take a massive 13-day extended break? Just like Chuseok or Lunar New Year in Korea, the entire country is immersed in a vibrant festive atmosphere during this time.
Here is a detailed guide on how people spend this long holiday and festival season, along with the specific 2026 schedule.
2026 Dasara 13-Day Holiday Schedule
In major regions like Telangana, the academic holiday schedule set by the education department is as follows:
Holiday Period: October 10 (Sat) – October 22 (Thu) (Total of 13 days)
School Reopening: Classes resume on October 23 (Fri)
Key Festival Dates:
October 11: Bathukamma festival begins
October 19: Saddula Bathukamma (Major celebration day)
October 20: Vijayadashami (Dasara Day)
As students take a break from their studies, colorful events unfold across India.
What Do People Do During the Dasara Festival?
1. Burning Giant Effigies in the Night Sky: Raavan Dahan
In northern and west-central India, a major highlight of the Dasara festival involves building giant effigies of the demon king Ravana and his brothers in open grounds and public squares.
On the final night of the festival, flaming arrows are shot at these massive effigies, triggering spectacular fireworks as they burn down. This 'Raavan Dahan' ritual symbolizes the victory of good over evil, drawing massive cheering crowds.
2. Exploring Elaborate Temporary Shrines: Pandal Hopping
In eastern regions (especially Kolkata), artistic and elaborate temporary shrines called 'Pandals' are set up all over the cities.
People go 'pandal hopping' to visit these stunning structures and worship Goddess Durga during Durga Puja. Throughout the festival, families dress up in traditional attire and stroll through the streets late into the night to soak in the festive energy.
3. Music and Dance Echoing Through the Night: Garba & Mela
In regions like Gujarat, people gather in squares every night during the festival to perform traditional circle dances like 'Garba' and 'Dandiya', sharing in the lively atmosphere.
Additionally, massive festive fairs known as 'Melas' open up in open lots and downtown areas. Adults and children alike flock to enjoy amusement park rides, street food, and shopping.
4. Heading Home and Grand Parades
Since schools close for nearly two weeks and many offices also grant holidays, a massive wave of people travels back to their hometowns to gather with extended families—much like a traditional holiday migration. Families gather to share special holiday sweets and dishes.
In famous festival cities like Mysore in the south, magnificent parades featuring gorgeously decorated elephants march through the streets (Jambu Savari), drawing huge crowds from all over the country.
Conclusion
For the people of India, the Dasara festival period is much more than just a holiday. It offers a much-needed recharge for students and workers exhausted by daily routines, while serving as a precious time to pass down ancient traditions with family.
If you plan to visit India in mid-October, experiencing the vibrant energy of this 13-day festival wave firsthand is an absolute must!
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