July 7 or 6? Check when schools, colleges and offices will remain closed for Muharram 2025 holiday

Time of India

17 hours ago

As Muharram approaches, uncertainty remains over whether schools, colleges and offices will be closed on Sunday, July 6, or Monday, July 7. The final date depends on the sighting of the moon, which determines the beginning of the Islamic new year and the observance of Muharram, a gazetted holiday in India.
Muharram 2025 Holiday: Date still tentative, moon sighting to decide
The government calendar currently lists July 6, 2025 (Sunday), as the tentative date for Muharram. However, since the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, the date could shift to July 7 depending on the moon sighting. If Muharram falls on Monday, schools and offices in many states are expected to remain closed.
Several schools are holding off on holiday announcements until the moon is sighted. Parents and students have been advised to check updates from their respective schools and local education departments for confirmation.
Muharram 2025 Holiday: States likely to declare holiday
States with significant Muslim populations, such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and West Bengal, are expected to announce official closures in case Muharram is observed on July 7. The final decision will come through district or state-level notifications, depending on religious and administrative coordination.
Muharram's significance in Islam
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and is regarded as one of the holiest periods. The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, holds deep significance, especially for Shia Muslims. It marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.
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The day is observed with religious ceremonies, prayers, and mourning processions by the Muslim community.
July school calendar and CBSE holiday list
For most Indian schools, summer vacation ends in June, and regular classes begin by early July. In northern states like Uttar Pradesh, the academic session has already resumed. Apart from Muharram, no other major holidays are scheduled in early July.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has already released the academic calendar for 2025–26. It includes holidays for national festivals, regional events, and seasonal breaks. According to this calendar, Muharram is tentatively marked on July 6 (Sunday), subject to change.
A final decision is expected soon after the sighting of the moon, which will determine whether the public holiday will fall on July 6 or 7.