Chhath Puja 2026: Delhi Declares November 16 Holiday, Bihar Schools to Reopen on November 18

Schools in Delhi and Bihar will observe holidays during Chhath Puja 2026, with the two states following different closure schedules. The Delhi government has declared November 16 (Monday) a public holiday on account of the festival, while government and government-aided schools in Bihar will remain closed until November 17.

According to the available announcements, Delhi schools are expected to resume classes on November 17, whereas Bihar schools are scheduled to reopen on November 18. Students and parents should check with their respective institutions for any school-specific changes.

Delhi declares November 16 a public holiday for Chhath Puja

The Delhi government has announced November 16, 2026, as a public holiday to mark Pratihar Shashthi, also known as Surya Shashthi or Chhath Puja.The General Administration Department issued the notification on November 9, following approval from Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. The order covers government offices, autonomous bodies and public sector undertakings (PSUs) operating under the Delhi government.

The holiday falls on a Monday and coincides with the concluding day of the Chhath festival. Government schools and other educational institutions are expected to follow the holiday schedule, although parents should confirm arrangements with individual schools.

Bihar schools to remain closed until November 17

In Bihar, government and government-aided schools will continue their festive break until November 17, 2026. According to the state's 2026 academic holiday calendar, the extended closure began on November 7, covering several festivals and observances, including Diwali, Chitragupta Puja, Bhai Dooj and Chhath Puja.Schools are scheduled to resume regular academic activities on Wednesday, November 18.However, private schools may follow separate academic calendars. Students should contact their respective school administrations to confirm reopening dates and class schedules.

Chhath Puja 2026: Important dates and rituals

Chhath Puja is an important Hindu festival dedicated to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya. Devotees observe fasting, offer prayers and perform rituals near rivers, ponds and other water bodies.

In 2026, the main festival celebrations will take place from November 13 to November 16. The important rituals include:

The festival concludes with devotees offering Arghya to the rising Sun, followed by the completion of their fast.

Will schools in Uttar Pradesh remain closed for Chhath Puja 2026?

Unlike Delhi and Bihar, a separate statewide school holiday notification for Chhath Puja in Uttar Pradesh was not confirmed in the available reports.Schools in districts where the festival is widely celebrated may announce local holidays depending on administrative instructions. Students and parents should check announcements from their schools or respective district administrations before making plans.