Schools across several states may remain closed on Monday, November 16, 2026, due to regional festivals, Chhath Puja holidays and state-specific academic calendars.

The holiday status may differ between government, private and aided schools. Here is a state-wise overview of where students should check for a holiday and where regular classes may continue.

School Holiday November 16: State-Wise Updates

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School status on November 16

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Major State-Wise School Holiday Updates for November 16

1. Delhi: All Government and Private Schools to Remain Closed

The Delhi government has officially declared November 16, 2026, a public holiday on account of Pratihar Shashthi or Surya Shashthi, popularly known as Chhath Puja. The Directorate of Education has issued a circular directing all government schools, government-aided schools and unaided recognised private schools to observe the holiday.

The order was issued on November 13, following the General Administration Department’s notification dated November 9. Schools are expected to resume regular classes on November 17.

2. Bihar: Schools to Remain Closed Until November 17

Schools in Bihar will continue their extended festive break on November 16. According to the state’s 2026 academic holiday calendar, government and government-aided schools are scheduled to remain closed from November 7 to November 17.

The extended break covers several festivals, including Diwali, Chitragupta Puja, Bhai Dooj and Chhath Puja. Schools are scheduled to reopen on November 18. Private schools may follow their individual holiday calendars.

3. Uttar Pradesh: Holiday Depends on Local School Orders

Schools in Uttar Pradesh may observe a holiday on November 16 for Chhath Puja, particularly in eastern districts such as Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, Ballia and Deoria, where the festival is widely celebrated.

However, a separate statewide school closure order has not been confirmed in the available reports. Parents should check announcements from their district administration and respective schools before making holiday plans.

4. Jharkhand: Three-Day Chhath Puja Holiday

Schools in Jharkhand are expected to observe holidays around Chhath Puja. According to reported state holiday schedules, November 15, 16 and 17 are holidays for the festival.

However, reopening dates may vary depending on individual school calendars.

7. Rajasthan: Regular Classes Expected to Resume

Schools in Rajasthan are expected to reopen on November 16 after the reported festive break ending November 15. Students should check with their respective schools for any changes in the reopening schedule.

Why Are Schools Closed on November 16?

November 16 marks the final day of the four-day Chhath Puja festival. Devotees observe Usha Arghya on Monday morning and offer prayers to the rising Sun.

The festival is widely celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and parts of West Bengal. Several state governments have included Chhath Puja in their annual holiday calendars.

Delhi’s Directorate of Education has issued a circular dated November 13, confirming the holiday for government, government-aided and recognised private schools.