Delhi Closes for Guru Tegh Bahadur Shaheedi Diwas: What’s Open & Closed on November 25

The Delhi government has declared Tuesday, November 25, 2025, as a public holiday in the National Capital Territory to commemorate the 350th Shaheedi Diwas (Martyrdom Day) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, the ninth Sikh Guru.

Delhi Holiday Nov 25
Delhi Holiday Nov 25

The decision upgrades the day from a restricted holiday to a full public holiday, allowing citizens to participate in memorial events, including a grand three-day commemoration being held at the Red Fort.

List of Closures and Operational Services

The holiday declaration affects government and educational institutions, while essential services and public transport are expected to function normally.

Category Status on November 25, 2025 Details
Government Offices CLOSED All Delhi government offices, departments, and public sector undertakings will remain shut.
Schools & Colleges CLOSED All government-run schools and colleges are closed. Most private schools are also expected to observe the holiday and will remain shut.
Banks OPEN Banks (both private and public sector) will remain open, as the day is not listed as a bank holiday under the RBI’s regional holiday schedule for this date.
Public Transport OPEN Delhi Metro and DTC/Cluster Buses will operate as per their normal schedule. Taxis and auto-rickshaws will also ply normally.
Hospitals OPEN Emergency services and all government hospitals will remain fully functional to ensure continuous healthcare access.
Markets & Private Shops OPEN Generally, private businesses, markets, and commercial establishments are expected to remain open, though operations may vary depending on local decisions.

Commemoration of the Martyrdom

Guru Tegh Bahadur is revered as the "Hind Di Chadar" (Shield of India) for his supreme sacrifice in 1675 against forced conversions and for defending the fundamental right to religious freedom and human dignity.

  • Commemorative Events: The public holiday is intended to allow greater participation in the 350th martyrdom anniversary celebrations, with major programs scheduled at the Red Fort—the site of his martyrdom—and various Gurdwaras across the city.
  • Significance: His martyrdom is a historic symbol of resilience against tyranny and is commemorated across northern India.