Delhi govt declares November 16 as a public holiday on account of Chhath Puja or Pratihar Shashthi
Delhi govt declares public holiday for Chhath Puja: The Delhi government has announced a public holiday on the occasion of Chhath Puja or Pratihar Shashthi. The order applies to all Delhi government offices, autonomous bodies and Public Sector Undertakings.
According to the notification issued, November 16 will be observed as a public holiday on account of Chhath Puja or Pratihar Shashthi. The holiday announcement includes the closure of educational institutions and schools in Delhi in the detailed GAD notification, which specifically identifies government offices, autonomous bodies, and PSUs. Parents and students are advised to check separately for instructions from their respective institutions regarding school closures. Employees working in private organisations should therefore check with their respective employers regarding holiday arrangements.
Earlier on Monday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta held a meeting with officials and workers from Chhath Puja committees. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that Chhath is a festival deeply connected to the faith, beliefs, and traditions of millions of people. She directed all departments to work in coordination and make arrangements to accommodate the needs of devotees visiting the ghats.
This year Chhath Puja will be observed over four days, from November 13 to 16. The festival is dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev, the Sun God, and Chhathi Maiya. Devotees observe rituals, offer prayers and observe a fast to express gratitude to the Sun and seek the well-being and prosperity of their families.
The festival is particularly significant in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh. It is also observed with devotion in Delhi and several other parts of the country.
Here is the four-day Chhath Puja calendar for 2026:
November 13, Friday: Nahay Khay
The festival begins with Nahay Khay. Devotees take a ritual bath, clean their homes and prepare a traditional meal as they begin their observance.
November 14, Saturday: Kharna
Devotees observe a fast during the day and perform Kharna rituals in the evening. Traditional prasad is prepared and offered before the more rigorous phase of fasting begins.
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November 15, Sunday: Sandhya Arghya
This is the main evening ritual of Chhath Puja. Devotees gather near rivers, ponds and other water bodies to offer Arghya to the setting Sun. Traditional offerings, including fruits and thekua, are arranged in baskets.
November 16, Monday: Usha Arghya and Parana
The festival concludes with prayers and offerings to the rising Sun. Devotees offer Usha Arghya in the morning, after which they complete the fast through Parana.
