Holiday in Delhi on 16 Nov Monday for all government offices, autonomous bodies, PSUs - Here is why
The announcement comes as the Delhi government steps up preparations for the four-day Chhath Puja festival, which begins on November 13.
On Monday, November 16, 2026, all government offices, autonomous bodies, and Public Sector Undertakings in Delhi will observe a public holiday. The holiday is in recognition of Pratihar Shashthi or Surya Shashthi, commonly known as Chhath Puja. Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu has approved the day off for all government offices, autonomous bodies, and Public Sector Undertakings in Delhi.
Chhath Puja is a four-day festival that begins on November 13, 2026, in Delhi. Over 1,400 ghats are being prepared for the festival, with various arrangements such as lighting, tents, CCTV cameras, changing rooms for women, and round-the-clock cleaning. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that Chhath is not just a religious celebration but also a symbol of Delhi's social and cultural unity.
She directed officials to prioritize devotees' convenience, safety, and cleanliness. The government has also directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to provide free spaces and ponds along the Yamuna floodplain and public spaces for Chhath celebrations. One of the major attractions this year is an 11-km-long ghat along the Munak canal, which will be developed and inaugurated by BJP national president Nitin Nabin on November 12.
The government has also ensured that large and medium-sized ghats have adequately covered tents to combat the winter chill.
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