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.
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.
The government notification covers all departments and bodies under GNCTD, including:
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.
Essential and public-facing services will continue without disruption:
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation confirmed that all lines will operate on the regular weekday schedule. DTC and cluster buses will also run normally.
All hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, ambulances and emergency services will remain open.
Banks in Delhi will function as usual, since November 25 is not listed as a holiday in the RBI’s regional calendar.
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.
A significant turnout is expected at gurudwaras across the capital, especially:
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.”
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.
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.
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.
Yes. Delhi Metro, DTC and cluster bus services will follow their regular weekday schedules.
No. Banks in Delhi will remain open since this date is not recognised as a bank holiday under the RBI regional calendar.
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.
Temporary slowdowns or diversions are likely around central Delhi, Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place and the Red Fort area due to high footfall near gurudwaras.
Many private schools are expected to be closed, but parents should check directly with their school because closure decisions vary.
Yes. Markets, shopping areas and malls will remain open unless individual shops choose to close for observance.
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