Announced Public Holiday in Pakistan on 20 October 2025: Check Official Notification & Details Here. The Government of Pakistan has officially declared Monday, 20 October 2025, as a public holiday in connection with Diwali 2025 (Deepavali), one of the most celebrated festivals in the Hindu community. This optional holiday allows Hindu employees in federal offices and public institutions to celebrate the festival with their families. The announcement highlights Pakistan’s commitment to religious harmony, cultural diversity, and inclusivity.
20 October 2025 Public Holiday in Pakistan Announced Notification & Details Here
In this article, we will cover the Diwali 2025 holiday in Pakistan, official notification details, significance of the festival, and how different communities can celebrate responsibly while maintaining essential public services.
Diwali 2025 Holiday in Pakistan – Official Notification
According to the official government circular, 20 October 2025 is an optional holiday for Hindu employees in all federal government offices, semi-government institutions, and public departments.
- Non-Hindu employees and departments with essential services will remain operational.
- The announcement applies nationwide, including Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, and Karachi, where Hindu communities have significant celebrations.
This step shows the government’s initiative to promote interfaith harmony and respect for minority communities in Pakistan.
Announced Public Holiday – October 2025
Date | Day | Event | Type |
20 October 2025 | Monday | Diwali / Deepavali | Optional Holiday |
Significance of the Diwali Festival
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated as the festival of lights, symbolizing:
- Victory of light over darkness
- Triumph of good over evil
- Prosperity, hope, and family togetherness
On Diwali:
- Homes and temples are decoratedwith diyas, candles, and colorful lights
- Families perform Lakshmi Pujato seek blessings for wealth and prosperity
- People share sweets, gifts, and greetingswith friends and neighbors
In Pakistan, Diwali has deep cultural importance for the Hindu minority, especially in cities like Hyderabad, Tharparkar, Karachi, and Sukkur. Local markets are decorated with lights, and cultural events are organized to bring communities together.
Cultural and Social Importance
- Diwali celebrations in Pakistan reflect the multicultural fabricof the country: Encourages peaceful coexistence among different religious communities
- Strengthens social bonds and community engagement
- Promotes tourism and local businesses in cities with active celebrations
Government’s Message on Diwali Holiday 2025
The Government of Pakistan emphasizes:
- Respect for religious traditions of all communities
- Support for national unity and harmony
- Compliance with official holiday notifications through the Cabinet Division’s Holiday Calendar 2025
Employees are advised to:
- Check notifications from their respective departments
- Plan leave in advance if required
- Maintain essential services to ensure national operations remain smooth
This announcement is part of a broader effort to recognize minority festivals officially and celebrate diversity in Pakistan.
How Hindu Employees Can Observe the Holiday
Hindu employees eligible for this optional holiday can:
- Plan family celebrationsin accordance with health and safety guidelines
- Visit templesfor traditional rituals like Lakshmi Puja
- Decorate homeswith diyas, rangoli, and lights
- Exchange gifts and sweetsto strengthen community ties
- Participate in cultural eventsorganized in their city
Public & Optional Holidays in Pakistan – October 2025
Date | Day | Event | Type |
1 October 2025 | Wednesday | Islamic New Year | Public Holiday |
14 October 2025 | Tuesday | Ashura | Public Holiday |
20 October 2025 | Monday | Diwali / Deepavali | Optional Holiday |
Note: This table helps employees quickly identify important holidays in October 2025 for planning purposes.
Why Diwali Is Celebrated Around the World
Diwali is celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists worldwide. Its universal messages include:
- Family unityand social bonding
- Spiritual reflectionand gratitude
- Promotion of goodwill and peace
In Pakistan, celebrating Diwali officially encourages cultural understanding and showcases the government’s inclusive approach to religious minorities.
Special Observances Across Pakistan
- Karachi:Diwali markets and fairs open for Hindu communities
- Hyderabad & Tharparkar:Traditional rituals, community gatherings, and local events
- Punjab & Balochistan:Homes illuminated with diyas, sweets exchanged, and charity activities
These celebrations not only highlight cultural richness but also boost local economies through festive markets and seasonal trade.
Tips for Responsible Celebration
- Follow COVID-19 and health protocols if attending crowded events
- Respect public spaces while decorating and lighting diyas
- Avoid disrupting essential government operations
- Engage in eco-friendly practices, such as biodegradable decorations
- Promote social harmony by inviting neighbors of different faiths
FAQs
Q1: Is 20 October 2025 a public holiday in Pakistan?
A: Yes, it is an optional public holiday for Hindu employees to celebrate Diwali 2025, as per government notification.
Q2: Which provinces observe Diwali 2025 in Pakistan?
A: Hindu employees across all federal offices in Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, and Karachi can avail this holiday.
Q3: Are essential services affected on 20 October 2025?
A: No, non-Hindu employees and departments requiring continuous operations will remain open.
Q4: What is the significance of Diwali?
A: Diwali represents the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, celebrated with lights, sweets, and family gatherings.
Q5: How can employees celebrate Diwali responsibly?
A: By following health protocols, engaging in eco-friendly decorations, and respecting public spaces while celebrating with family and community.
Conclusion
The announcement of 20 October 2025 as a Diwali public holiday in Pakistan marks an important step in promoting religious harmony, inclusivity, and cultural respect. Hindu employees can celebrate with joy, while essential services continue smoothly.