The Sindh government has declared October 20, 2025 a public holiday for the Hindu community so they can celebrate Holi freely and joyfully. The official notice covers both government and private institutions across Sindh, meaning schools, offices, and companies will give time off to Hindu employees and students.
Here’s the thing: this holiday is province-specific. It doesn’t apply nationwide by default. In other provinces, Hindu employees may take optional leave if they wish.
Highlights
- October 20, 2025 is a public holiday in Sindh province for the Hindu community
- Both public and private institutions in Sindh will observe the holiday
- It won’t be a full public holiday nationwide, other provinces treat it as optional for Hindu employees
- The purpose is to let people celebrate Holi openly, with family, faith, and festivity
Why This Holiday Matters
You might wonder: isn’t Holi already recognized sometimes? What’s new here is the formal, province-level acknowledgement as a holiday in Sindh.
Holi is one of the most beloved Hindu festivals. It marks spring’s arrival and the triumph of good over evil. By granting this holiday, the government is signaling respect for religious freedom, inclusion, and social unity. Letting people step away from their regular routine to celebrate faith and family can strengthen community harmony.
How the Holiday Applies (and Where)
In Sindh
- Applies to all government and private institutions
- Students, employees from the Hindu community are eligible for the day off
In Other Provinces
- Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan: it’s optional leave for Hindu employees
- The federal (national) government has not declared a country-wide holiday
| Province / Level | Holiday Type | Who It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Sindh | Public holiday | Hindu employees, students in Sindh |
| Other provinces | Optional leave | Hindu employees (if they choose) |
| Federal / National | None (not declared) | No automatic holiday for entire country |
Government Message
The official announcement included warm greetings for the Hindu community:
“We extend our heartfelt greetings to our Hindu community on the occasion of Holi, wishing everyone joy, peace, and prosperity.”
This message reinforces the idea that celebrations of different cultures and religions are valued.
Latest Update (as of October 2025)
As of now, no change has been announced — the holiday remains confined to Sindh, with the optional status in other provinces. If that shifts (for example, if the federal level steps in), updates will emerge in government bulletins or regional media.
FAQs
Q: Will this holiday apply across Pakistan?
No, it is only officially for Sindh province. In other provinces, it's optional for Hindu employees.
Q: Do private companies in Sindh have to follow it?
Yes, the notification includes both government and private institutions.
Q: Can Hindu people outside Sindh take leave for Holi?
Yes, in other provinces it's usually optional leave. They may apply for leave if their employer allows it.
Q: Why October 20? Isn’t Holi usually in spring?
That’s a good question. In some communities, especially Sindhi Hindus, Holi is observed later in the year (often in what’s called Holi-e-Salana). This holiday matches that tradition.
Q: Will this lead to more religious holidays in other provinces?
Possibly. But it depends on provincial or national policy. For now, this is a Sindh-level decision.
Conclusion
This public holiday on October 20, 2025 is a meaningful gesture, it gives the Hindu community in Sindh a full day to celebrate, without pressure. It also shows a step toward inclusion and respect for religious diversity.
If you live or work in Sindh and are part of the Hindu community, enjoy your holiday! If you’re elsewhere, check with your employer whether optional leave is allowed.
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