Delhi declares November 16 public holiday for Chhath Puja
All government offices, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings in the national capital will remain closed on Monday.
The Delhi government has announced a public holiday on November 16, 2026, for Chhath Puja, according to reports by Moneycontrol and Telegraph India. The holiday, also known as Pratihar Shashthi or Surya Shashthi, applies to all government offices, autonomous bodies and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
The General Administration Department released the notification on November 9, 2026, following approval from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. The order was issued by Pradeep Tayal, Joint Secretary of the General Administration Department.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that Chhath Puja represents the social and cultural unity of Delhi. She said the government intends to ensure that devotees observing the fast and those visiting ghats can celebrate with peace, dignity and faith.
Ahead of the four-day festival starting November 13, Chief Minister Gupta held a high-level review meeting on Monday. She instructed officials to prioritise the safety, cleanliness and convenience of devotees.
Official statements indicate that authorities are preparing facilities including CCTV surveillance at major ghats, changing rooms for women, tents, proper lighting and round-the-clock cleaning. An 11-km-long ghat is also being developed near Munak Canal to assist devotees in offering prayers.