Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Friday announced a public holiday on November 7 to celebrate Chhath Puja, a significant festival observed primarily by communities from Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. The decision came shortly after Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena recommended a holiday to allow Delhi’s Purvanchali community to celebrate the festival, which is dedicated to worshipping the sun god and promoting gratitude for nature’s offerings.
The Chief Minister shared the announcement on X, saying, “I am happy to inform you that the Delhi government has decided to declare a holiday on November 7 for the festival of Chhath, so that all our brothers and sisters of Purvanchal can celebrate the festival with pomp and show.” Alongside the post, she shared the signed order formalising the holiday, which highlighted the cultural significance of Chhath Puja for many residents of Delhi. “Chhath Puja is an important festival for the people of NCT of Delhi. Accordingly, the Government of NCT of Delhi has decided to declare November 7, 2024, as a public holiday on account of ‘Chhat Puja,” the order read.
In a post earlier in the day, the Raj Niwas office stated, “Hon’ble Lt Governor has written to Hon’ble CM, requesting her to move the file for declaring November 7th, 2024, as a public holiday, on account of Chhath Puja.” This move underscores the cultural importance of the festival and the Delhi government’s commitment to recognising it.
Chhath Puja is a rigorous four-day ritual that involves fasting, holy bathing, offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, and standing in rivers or ponds for meditation. Observed with devotion and discipline, the festival has a deep connection to Hindu spirituality and nature, symbolising gratitude for the sun’s energy and life-giving properties.
The declaration of a public holiday will allow Delhi’s Purvanchali community, which forms a substantial part of the city’s population, to fully participate in the celebrations. The Delhi government has also made arrangements in recent years to support Chhath festivities at various ghats across the city, providing water tanks, sanitation facilities, and lighting to ensure a safe and inclusive celebration.
Chhath Puja has become increasingly recognised across urban centres like Delhi, where diverse populations celebrate regional festivals with collective enthusiasm. The public holiday not only acknowledges this cultural diversity but also aligns with the government’s aim of creating an inclusive environment that respects the traditions and customs of all communities.
This year’s holiday announcement marks a special recognition for Delhi’s Purvanchali community, affirming the capital’s appreciation of its diverse cultural fabric and the shared celebration of heritage. With preparations underway and the holiday now in place, the city is set to join the celebrations on November 7, allowing more residents to take part in the traditional rites dedicated to the sun god.