FIFA fever: These 3 Indian states declared school holiday so students could stay up for World Cup final

Football fever swept across parts of India as Kerala, Manipur and Meghalaya declared a holiday for schools and colleges on Monday, allowing students to stay up late to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

The rare move came ahead of the title clash between defending champions Argentina and Spain, which kicked off shortly after midnight IST at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

States respond to football frenzy

The holiday was announced following requests from students and football fans, with state governments acknowledging the popularity of the tournament and the late-night kickoff.

In Kerala, the General Education Department declared a holiday for schools and professional colleges.

Sharing the announcement on social media, General Education Minister N. Shamshudeen wrote, "Aren't you happy now, children? Since the World Cup football final match is being held at midnight today, considering the request of sports-loving students, the public education department has declared a holiday."

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The Kerala government clarified that any previously scheduled examinations would be held as planned despite the holiday. The state also made arrangements to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the match.

Manipur and Meghalaya issued similar orders, declaring a holiday for schools and colleges across different education boards to allow students to watch the final from home.

Spain lift second World Cup title

The late-night fixture lived up to expectations as Spain and Argentina battled through a tense contest that remained goalless after regulation time.

The match was finally decided in extra time when substitute Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute, handing Spain a 1-0 victory and its second FIFA World Cup title.

The defeat marked the end of Lionel Messi's World Cup career, while Spain celebrated a memorable triumph after a dramatic final.