Andhra Pradesh Revises Muharram School Holiday Schedule for 2026; Schools to Close on June 26

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has revised the Muharram holiday schedule for 2026, making important changes to the state's official holiday calendar. The decision has been taken following updated lunar calendar assessments and recommendations received from the Andhra Pradesh State Wakf Board.

The revised schedule aims to ensure that the observance of Muharram and Ashura aligns accurately with the expected religious calendar and astronomical calculations.

Andhra Pradesh Revises Muharram School Holiday Schedule for 2026

According to government orders G.O.Rt.No.1176 and G.O.Rt.No.1177 issued on June 15, 2026, the state administration has modified the dates of both optional and general holidays associated with Muharram. The revision comes after consultations among various government departments and religious authorities regarding the expected sighting of the lunar month and the corresponding dates of Muharram observances.

Revised Holiday Schedule

Under the updated notification, the optional holiday that was previously scheduled for June 16, 2026, has been rescheduled to June 25, 2026. Similarly, the general holiday that was earlier announced for June 25 has now been shifted to June 26, 2026.

As a result of this revision, government offices, educational institutions, and other establishments observing the official holiday calendar will now remain closed on June 26, 2026, for the observance of Muharram (Ashura). Schools across Andhra Pradesh are also expected to remain closed on this date in accordance with the revised government notification.

Reason Behind the Revision

Officials explained that the change has been made after reviewing updated lunar calendar calculations. Based on the latest assessments, the 9th day of Muharram is expected to fall on June 25, 2026, while the 10th day of Muharram, observed as Ashura, is likely to be commemorated on June 26, 2026.

Muharram is one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar, and Ashura holds special religious importance for Muslims worldwide. Since Islamic festivals and observances are determined by the lunar calendar, holiday dates are sometimes revised based on moon-sighting reports and updated astronomical calculations.

Impact on Schools and Government Institutions

The revised holiday schedule provides clarity for schools, colleges, government departments, and other institutions in planning their activities. Educational institutions across Andhra Pradesh will now adjust their academic schedules according to the updated holiday notification.

Parents, students, and school authorities are advised to take note of the revised dates and follow official instructions issued by the state government and local education departments. Government employees and other stakeholders should also refer to the amended holiday calendar for updated observance dates.

Ensuring Accurate Religious Observance

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision reflects its commitment to ensuring that official holidays correspond with actual religious observances. By incorporating recommendations from the Andhra Pradesh State Wakf Board and considering updated lunar assessments, the administration aims to maintain consistency between the official calendar and community practices.

The revised Muharram holiday schedule highlights the importance of coordination between religious bodies and government authorities in determining festival-related public holidays. With schools and government offices set to remain closed on June 26, 2026, the updated notification provides clarity and ensures that Muharram is observed on the appropriate date across the state.