New Delhi, Aug. 26 -- As Maharashtra gears up for the festival that celebrates Lord Ganesha as the 'God of New Beginnings' and the 'Remover of Obstacles,' the one question always remains in the back of parents' minds-Is there a school holiday for Ganesh Chaturthi?

The Maharashtra government has accorded a 'state festival' status to 'Ganeshotsav,' and therefore, schools across the state, including Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Pune, will remain closed for the festival, which will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 27, this year.

Ganesh Chaturthi is a public holiday in Maharashtra; on Wednesday, not only the schools but also the banks and government offices will remain closed.

Ganesh Chaturthi, which lasts 10 days, celebrates the birth...