The auspicious Chhath Puja, a revered Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, is set to be celebrated with fervor on November 7th, 2024. This year, several states across India have declared school holidays to allow communities to fully participate in the four-day festival, which includes fasting, bathing in rivers, and prayers at sunrise and sunset. Here’s a comprehensive look at the holiday announcements and their impact on schools, government offices, and banks in various regions.
Delhi Embraces Chhath Festivities with Holiday
The Delhi government has announced a public holiday on November 7th, 2024, in observance of Chhath Puja. This decision, announced by Chief Minister Atishi, will enable the Purvanchal community in Delhi to fully immerse themselves in the festival’s traditions. In addition to schools, all government departments in New Delhi will also remain closed on November 7th to honor the occasion.
Bihar Celebrates Chhath with Extended School Holiday
The Bihar government has declared a four-day school holiday from November 6th to 9th, 2024, in recognition of Chhath Puja. This extended holiday will allow students and educators to fully participate in the festival’s rituals and festivities. The state government’s decision reflects the significance of Chhath Puja in Bihar, where it is deeply ingrained in cultural practices.
Jharkhand’s Acknowledgement of Chhath
While there has been no official announcement regarding school holidays in Jharkhand, November 7th has been designated as a restricted holiday for central government employees in the state. This indicates a formal acknowledgment of Chhath Puja’s importance by the government, although the impact on schools remains unclear.
Uttar Pradesh: Celebrations Amidst Uncertainty
In Uttar Pradesh, most schools are likely to remain closed on November 7th to coincide with the Chhath Puja celebrations. However, as of this writing, the state government has not issued an official announcement regarding a school holiday. The absence of an official declaration leaves room for individual school decisions, which may vary across the state.
Impact on Banks: Closure for Chhath Puja
Beyond school holidays, banks across several states will remain closed on November 7th to honor Chhath Puja. This closure applies to banks in Bihar, Delhi, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, reflecting the festival’s widespread recognition. In Bihar and Jharkhand, the holiday extends to November 8th, further emphasizing the significance of the festival’s extended celebrations.
As Chhath Puja draws near, communities across India are gearing up to participate in this vibrant and spiritual festival. The holiday announcements from various state governments serve as a testament to the importance of Chhath Puja and its profound impact on Indian culture and traditions.
