Educational Institutions Across J&K to Remain Closed on Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s Birth Anniversary

Jammu, Sept 22 : The Jammu and Kashmir administration has announced that all schools, colleges, and other educational institutions will remain closed tomorrow in connection with the birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji, the last Dogra ruler of the erstwhile princely state. The decision, which applies to both government and private institutions, has been welcomed across Jammu where the Maharaja continues to be remembered for his progressive reforms and role in shaping modern education in the region.

Officials confirmed that the holiday has been declared to commemorate the 128th birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh Ji. The day has been recognised as a state holiday since 2022 after sustained demands from social and political groups in Jammu, who argued that the Maharaja’s contributions to education, women’s rights, and social justice deserved formal acknowledgment.

Educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir will therefore suspend regular classes, while several cultural and commemorative programmes are expected to be held. In Jammu city, the main event will take place at the Maharaja’s statue near Tawi bridge, where political leaders, student groups, and civil society members are scheduled to pay floral tributes.

Locals said the holiday carries special significance as Maharaja Hari Singh Ji’s legacy is closely tied to reforms in education. “He introduced free and compulsory education, and also worked to end discrimination in admissions based on caste or creed. For students, this day is more than just a holiday — it is a reminder of a visionary who valued learning,” said Rajesh Sharma, a college lecturer in Jammu.

Student groups, particularly in Jammu University, have planned seminars and discussions on the Maharaja’s reforms, ranging from the abolition of untouchability to his emphasis on merit-based recruitment in state services. “He was ahead of his time in many respects, and remembering him is part of our duty to history,” said a student leader. (CNS)