Last Day of Hanukkah 2025 in India

The last day of Hanukkah marks the conclusion of the eight-day Festival of Lights, commemorating the miracle of the oil. All eight candles on the menorah are lit, symbolizing hope, faith, and the triumph of light over darkness, with prayers, songs, and festive meals completing the celebration.

Last Day of Hanukkah: A Public Holiday?

The last day of Hanukkah is not a public holiday in India. While the Jewish community observes it through prayers and celebrations, schools, offices, and businesses remain open as usual.

Last Day of Hanukkah

The last day of Hanukkah, also known as Zot Hanukkah, concludes the eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights. The festival commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days despite being enough for just one. The last day is a time of reflection and celebration, symbolizing the culmination of the spiritual and historical significance of the festival.

In India, the Jewish community, though small, has observed Hanukkah for centuries. Communities such as the Bene Israel in Maharashtra, the Cochin Jews in Kerala, and the Baghdadi Jews in Kolkata have preserved the traditions of the festival, including its final day. The last day of Hanukkah does not have specific historical ties to India, but Jewish families here continue to honor the customs and teachings of their faith, making it a meaningful part of their religious and cultural identity.

Last Day of Hanukkah Celebration in India

The last day of Hanukkah in India is celebrated by lighting all eight candles on the menorah, symbolizing the fulfillment of the miracle. Families gather to recite prayers, sing hymns, and enjoy festive meals that often include fried foods like latkes and doughnuts. In cities with active synagogues, such as Mumbai, Kochi, and Kolkata, communal menorah lightings and prayers bring the community together to mark the occasion. Some families exchange small gifts or share stories about the significance of Hanukkah to pass the traditions to younger generations.

The importance of the last day of Hanukkah lies in its message of hope, resilience, and faith. For the Jewish community in India, it is a celebration of an ancient miracle and an opportunity to connect with their cultural heritage. It emphasizes the triumph of light over darkness and serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and unity.

Last Day of Hanukkah Observances