Delhi Declares November 7 Public Holiday for Chhath Puja to Celebrate Purvanchali Community
New Delhi: In a move to honor the cultural heritage of the Purvanchali community, the Delhi government has declared a public holiday on November 7, 2024, in observance of Chhath Puja. This annual festival is celebrated by devotees from Purvanchal—encompassing parts of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand—to pay homage to the Sun God.
Delhi’s Education Minister, Atishi, made the announcement on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “I am pleased to share that the Delhi government has decided to observe a public holiday on November 7 to celebrate the festival of Chhath. This will allow all brothers and sisters of Purvanchal residing in Delhi to observe the festivities with great enthusiasm and reverence.”
Chhath Puja, which involves elaborate rituals, is particularly significant among the Purvanchali community, known for their deep cultural roots in the national capital. The festival traditionally spans four days, including various rituals such as Nahai Khai, Kharna, and Sandhya Arghya, during which devotees fast and offer prayers to the Sun God by immersing themselves in river water at sunrise and sunset.
A Day to Honor Cultural Diversity in Delhi
This holiday declaration follows a longstanding demand from Purvanchalis residing in Delhi, a community that forms a significant portion of the capital’s population. The holiday on November 7 will enable members of this community to participate fully in the customs and celebrations without work-related concerns.
This announcement from the Delhi government reaffirms its commitment to honoring the cultural and religious diversity within the city. The decision aligns with similar efforts by state governments across India, where Chhath Puja is widely celebrated, particularly in Bihar and parts of Uttar Pradesh.
Acknowledging the Contributions of Purvanchalis in Delhi
With nearly 30% of Delhi’s population having roots in Purvanchal, the holiday is seen as a gesture of goodwill and respect towards the contributions of this community. Purvanchalis have played a vital role in Delhi’s social and economic landscape, and the government’s decision has been widely welcomed.
In recent years, Chhath Puja has gained wider recognition, not only as a traditional festival but as a celebration of Delhi’s multiculturalism. This public holiday is anticipated to foster greater unity and inclusivity among the city’s residents, offering a chance for all communities to observe and appreciate the beauty of Purvanchali traditions.
The Delhi government has been working actively to ensure that necessary arrangements are in place at major ghats and riverbanks, where large numbers of devotees gather for the rituals. Authorities are also planning to deploy additional security and medical support to facilitate a smooth and safe celebration.
By dedicating November 7 to this revered festival, Delhi takes a step towards recognizing and celebrating its cultural mosaic, echoing the city’s identity as a melting pot of traditions. The holiday provides an opportunity for Delhiites of all backgrounds to connect with the rich heritage of Purvanchal and strengthen the bond among its diverse communities.
