Several states, including Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh have declared holidays on the ocassion of Chhath Puja.
Delhi chief minister Atishi announced on Friday that November 7 will be a public holiday in the capital to celebrate Chhath Puja. The decision came in response to a request from Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who had urged the CM to declare the day a holiday in observance of the festival.
The LG on Tuesday declared a public holiday for all Delhi government offices in observance of ‘Pratihar Shashthi’ or ‘Surya Shashthi’ (Chhath Puja). The four-day festival, which began on Tuesday, honors the Sun God and is celebrated in various Indian states and globally. This year, Chhath Puja runs from November 5 to 8.
“The Lieutenant Governor of the National Capital Territory of Delhi is pleased to declare Thursday, 7th November 2024, as a holiday in all Government offices under the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi on ‘Pratihar Shashthi or Surya Shashthi (Chhat Puja)’,” read a notification issued by Pradeep Tayal, deputy secretary, general administration department.
Check list of states which have declared holiday:
Bank holidays
On November 7 (Thursday), banks will be closed in Bihar, Delhi, Jharkhand, and Bengal in observance of Chhath Puja Evening Arghya. The following day, November 8 (Friday), banks will remain closed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Meghalaya for Chhath Puja Morning Arghya and the Wangala Festival.
School holidays
Schools will remain shut on November 7 in Bihar, Jharkhand and UP on the occasion of Chhath Puja. The festival includes fasting and prayers for the health and prosperity of family members. In areas where Chhath Puja is celebrated, schools close to allow students to engage in the early morning and evening rituals held along the riverbanks.