Chhath Puja 2026: Delhi declares November 16 holiday, Bihar schools closed till November 17

Schools in Delhi and Bihar will observe holidays in connection with Chhath Puja 2026, with the Delhi government declaring November 16 a public holiday and educational institutions in Bihar remaining closed until November 17. The festival will be observed from November 13 to November 16 this year.

The Delhi government has declared November 16 (Monday) a public holiday across government offices, schools, colleges, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings (PSUs) functioning under the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The General Administration Department (GAD) issued the notification on November 9, following approval from Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. The announcement comes ahead of the concluding day of Chhath Puja, when devotees offer prayers to the rising Sun.

Bihar schools to remain closed till November 17

Meanwhile, government and government-aided schools across Bihar will remain closed between November 7 and November 17, according to the state's 2026 academic holiday calendar. Schools will reopen on November 18.

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The extended break covers several festivals, including Diwali, Chitragupta Puja, Bhai Dooj and Chhath Puja. Private schools may follow different holiday schedules, depending on their respective academic calendars. Therefore, students are advised to be in touch with their respective schools for latest update on holiday.

UP schools may observe local holidays

In Uttar Pradesh, the state government is yet to issue a separate notification declaring a statewide school holiday for Chhath Puja. However, schools in districts such as Varanasi and Gorakhpur, where the festival is widely celebrated, may observe local holidays.

Students and parents have been advised to check with their respective schools and district administrations for confirmation of holiday arrangements.