Chhath Puja, one of the most significant festivals dedicated to the Sun God, is being celebrated with great devotion across several Indian states. As part of the celebration, many state governments have declared public holidays for schools and government offices to allow people to observe the rituals and festivities. Schools in Delhi, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Rajasthan will remain closed for Chhath Puja as per their respective state schedules.
I’m writing this because Chhath Puja is more than just a regional festival — it’s an important cultural and spiritual tradition for millions of people across India. Understanding school and office closures helps families plan their travel, puja preparations, and other festive activities. It also reflects how deeply Chhath Puja is woven into the social fabric, marking a time of community gatherings, prayers at riverbanks, and a collective spirit of gratitude towards nature and the Sun God.
School Holidays Announced for Chhath Puja 2025
With Chhath Puja being celebrated over four days this year, several states have announced holiday schedules to accommodate the festivities. Below is a detailed look at the school closures across different states.
Schools Closed in Delhi on October 27
The Delhi government has declared a public holiday on October 27, 2025, for Chhath Puja. All schools, government offices, and most private institutions will remain closed on this day. The decision ensures smooth observance of Chhath rituals at ghats across the city, including Yamuna Ghat, ITO, and Mayur Vihar.
Bihar Schools Closed Till October 28
In Bihar, where Chhath Puja is celebrated with unmatched fervour, all schools and government offices will remain closed until October 28, 2025. Major preparations have been made at riverbanks in Patna, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur, where thousands of devotees gather for the Sandhya Arghya and Usha Arghya rituals.
Uttar Pradesh Schools Closed Till October 29
The Uttar Pradesh government has extended the holiday period till October 29, 2025, for Chhath Puja. Schools in cities like Varanasi, Lucknow, and Gorakhpur will reopen only after the festival concludes. The extended break allows families more time for travel and participation in community events.
West Bengal Schools Closed on October 27
In West Bengal, particularly in Kolkata and surrounding districts, schools will observe a one-day holiday on October 27, 2025, for Chhath Puja. Special arrangements have been made at riverbanks such as Babughat and Digha for devotees offering prayers during sunrise and sunset.
Rajasthan Schools Closed on October 27
The Rajasthan government has also announced a holiday on October 27, 2025, in several districts including Jaipur and Kota. Though Chhath Puja is not as widely celebrated as in Bihar or UP, the growing migrant community has made it an important cultural event in the state.
Why Chhath Puja Matters
Chhath Puja is celebrated six days after Diwali and is dedicated to the worship of Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, the goddess associated with well-being and prosperity. Devotees observe strict fasting, take holy dips in rivers, and offer Arghya during sunrise and sunset. The four-day ritual symbolises gratitude towards nature and is a reminder of the deep spiritual connection between humans and the environment.
