A public holiday has been declared in Delhi today, November 25, on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru. The public holiday coincides with the last day of three-day-long events at the Red Fort that started from November 23 and concludes today. The Delhi government announced it to facilitate participation by citizens in the events to be organized marking the courage, sacrifice, and protection of religious freedom by the Guru.
Are Government Offices closed on Shaheedi Diwas?
Yes, all Delhi government offices have been declared closed today on account of Shaheedi Diwas. All non-essential public departments and administrative buildings will remain closed for the entire day. The Central government offices, meanwhile, observe a usual working day unless notified individually.
Are Schools and Colleges closed on Shaheedi Diwas?
Yes, all the government schools in Delhi are closed today. Several private schools also declared holidays, though it varies from administration to administration.
Colleges and universities run by the Delhi government are also closed on account of holiday, whereas the centrally funded institutes continue as per their notifications.
Are Hospital’s closed on Shaheedi Diwas?
All emergency medical services and government hospitals are functioning normally. Outpatient departments in government hospitals may run on limited staff, but critical services remain uninterrupted. Private hospitals and clinics are operating as usual.
Is Delhi Metro working on Shaheedi Diwas?
Yes. Metro services, DTC buses, cluster buses, autos, cabs and app-based taxis are running according to regular schedules. No routes or services have been suspended in view of the public holiday to ensure smooth movement for residents, and for visitors who head out to the Red Fort celebrations.
Are Banks closed on Shaheedi Diwas?
No. Despite the state-declared holiday, banks in Delhi are open today. As per the regional calendar of the Reserve Bank of India, November 25 is not mentioned as a bank holiday. This means all public and private sector banks are operational for the day.
Why is the Holiday on Shaheedi Diwas being observed?
The Delhi government declared the public holiday to honor the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, who gave his life in 1675 defending freedom of religion.
The Chief Minister underlined that the day reflects the Guru’s principles of compassion, courage and the right to practice one’s faith without fear.
How is Delhi marking the 350th Shaheedi Diwas?
A grand three-day celebration at the Red Fort includes:
- Spiritual gatherings and kirtan sessions
- A light and laser show
- Cultural presentations recounting Guru’s life
Participation from families across Delhi Over the last two days, thousands of devotees have already visited the venue, while more are expected today as the ceremony concludes.
