Kerala declares Saturday as Bakrid holiday for govt offices; educational institutions to remain closed today and tomorrow

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala government has officially declared Saturday as the public holiday for Bakrid (Eid al-Adha) for all government and public sector institutions. The decision comes after Muslim scholars confirmed that the festival will be celebrated on Saturday, following the non-sighting of the crescent moon in the state.

Originally, the holiday was scheduled for Friday as per the official calendar. However, with the change in the festival date, Friday's holiday was withdrawn. The state Cabinet met on Thursday and approved the shift, declaring Saturday, June 29, as the new official holiday.

In response to demands from several quarters, including the Indian Union Muslim League, for a holiday on Friday as well, the government announced a two-day break for educational institutions, including professional colleges. As a result, schools and colleges will remain closed on both Friday and Saturday.