Home Delhi NCR News Delhi Announces Public Holiday on November 25 to Mark Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas

Delhi Announces Public Holiday on November 25 to Mark Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas

New Delhi, November 24, 2025:

The Delhi government has declared Tuesday, November 25 a public holiday across the national capital to observe Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas, the annual day that commemorates the martyrdom of the ninth Sikh Guru. The official notification was issued on Sunday evening, confirming that all government offices and schools under the Delhi administration will remain closed.

The holiday aligns with major commemorative gatherings taking place between November 23 and 25, including large events at the Red Fort and major gurudwaras across Delhi. This year’s observance has drawn significant attention because of the scale of participation expected and the historical importance the capital holds in the Guru’s legacy.

A Tribute Rooted Deep in Delhi’s History

Guru Tegh Bahadur, revered as Hind Di Chadar, sacrificed his life in 1675 in the defence of religious freedom. His martyrdom took place in Delhi, marking the city as a central part of Sikh history. The sites associated with that moment, including Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk and Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib near Parliament, remain important destinations for devotees today.

A senior Delhi government official said the holiday allows residents to “honour the Guru’s teachings of courage, devotion and protection of fundamental rights”, adding that high footfall is expected at all major gurudwaras on Tuesday.

What Will Be Closed Across Delhi

The government notification covers all departments and bodies under GNCTD, including:

Government offices and administrative sections
Government schools and municipal schools
Several private schools, most of which issued their closure announcements late Sunday

Many private institutions are also expected to follow the directive, though parents have been advised to check directly with their schools.

Courts operating under the Delhi administration are expected to remain closed, except for urgent matters handled by designated duty officers.

What Will Stay Operational

Essential and public-facing services will continue without disruption:

Public Transport

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation confirmed that all lines will operate on the regular weekday schedule. DTC and cluster buses will also run normally.

Hospitals and Emergency Services

All hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, ambulances and emergency services will remain open.

Banks

Banks in Delhi will function as usual, since November 25 is not listed as a holiday in the RBI’s regional calendar.

Markets and Commercial Areas

Markets, malls and commercial hubs such as Connaught Place, Lajpat Nagar, Rajouri Garden and Karol Bagh are expected to remain open unless individual shops choose to shut for observance.

Large Gatherings Expected Across Gurudwaras

A significant turnout is expected at gurudwaras across the capital, especially:

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Chandni Chowk
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Connaught Place
Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib, near Parliament
Red Fort lawns, where a three-day programme is underway

The Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) said devotional sessions, kirtan, ardas and langar arrangements have been scaled up to accommodate increased participation. A spokesperson shared, “This day carries deep meaning for families across Delhi. We expect a very large gathering this year.”

Traffic and Security Planning for Tuesday

Delhi Traffic Police has prepared to manage crowd movement at key religious sites and surrounding roads. Diversions may be placed temporarily around Chandni Chowk, CP and areas near Central Secretariat depending on crowd flow.

Officials advised commuters to leave early, especially if travelling to central, Old Delhi or New Delhi zone during the morning or late evening prayer hours. Metro travel is expected to be smoother than road transport during peak timings.

Additional police personnel have also been deployed at gurudwaras and important junctions to manage both security and movement.

What Residents Should Keep in Mind

Expect more crowding near major gurudwaras through the day
Metro is the most reliable option for travel, particularly around Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place
Families visiting religious sites should plan for longer queues during morning and evening prayer sessions
Parents should check individual school announcements, especially for private institutions
Offices operating independently of the government directive may issue their own circulars

FAQs

What is the reason behind the public holiday on November 25 in Delhi?

The holiday has been declared to observe Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas, which commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. The day holds historical and cultural importance for Delhi because key events of his martyrdom took place in the capital.

Which institutions will be closed on November 25?

All Delhi government offices, government schools, municipal schools and several private schools will remain closed. Courts functioning under the Delhi administration will also remain shut except for urgent duties.

Will the Delhi Metro and buses operate normally?

Yes. Delhi Metro, DTC and cluster bus services will follow their regular weekday schedules.

Are banks closed on November 25?

No. Banks in Delhi will remain open since this date is not recognised as a bank holiday under the RBI regional calendar.

What areas of Delhi are expected to see the largest gatherings?

Major gatherings are anticipated at Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Gurudwara Rakab Ganj Sahib and the Red Fort, where commemorative programmes are being held.

Will there be any traffic restrictions on Tuesday?

Temporary slowdowns or diversions are likely around central Delhi, Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place and the Red Fort area due to high footfall near gurudwaras.