Fri Oct 11 02:07:56 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Schools Closed on Friday for Navratri Celebrations
**Thiruvananthapuram, October 10, 2024:** Kerala schools under the General Education Department will remain closed on Friday, October 11, in observance of Durga Ashtami and Navami, the key days of the Navratri festival. The decision was announced by Education Minister V Sivankutty, who stated that the closure is part of the Puja holidays.
The request for a holiday came from the National Teachers Union, who submitted a memorandum to the minister urging a closure on October 11. The Durga Ashtami and Mahanavami puja fell on the same day this year, prompting the request.
This closure aligns with similar closures in other states including Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, where banks will also be closed today in honor of Mahashtami and Mahanavami. Several regional banks in northeastern India will also be closed.
Durga Ashtami, celebrated on the eighth day of Navratri, marks the fierce battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. This year, Durga Ashtami and Navami coincide, falling on October 11.
The nine-day Shardiya Navratri festival concludes with Vijayadashami, which celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The tenth day, Dussehra, marks Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana and the subsequent rescue of Goddess Sita.
Diwali, the festival of lights, will be celebrated on October 31 this year, coinciding with Kartik Amavasya or Naraka Chaturdashi. This auspicious day is believed to be when Goddess Lakshmi descends to Earth, making it the perfect time for Diwali puja.
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