Chitrakoot Declares Public Holiday for Diwali Amavasya Mela on November 10

Residents of Chitrakoot district in Uttar Pradesh will enjoy an extra day off on November 10, 2026, as the district administration has declared a public holiday in observance of the Diwali Amavasya Mela. This decision, announced by District Magistrate Pulkit Garg, aims to facilitate the arrangements for the five-day religious fair, which draws thousands of devotees to the town associated with Lord Ram. Government offices, schools, and colleges will remain closed, as per the official order circulated to all concerned departments.

The Diwali Amavasya Mela is an annual event that runs from November 6 to November 10, coinciding with the festival of Diwali. This year, the fair has attracted significant attention, with preparations underway for several days prior to the event. The holiday declaration aims to support the logistical needs of the fair, which includes managing large crowds and ensuring the safety of attendees.

According to the order issued by DM Pulkit Garg, all government offices, schools, and colleges in Chitrakoot will be closed on November 10. Officials have been warned of potential action for non-compliance with this directive. The holiday is expected to ease the burden on families who wish to participate in the festivities without the constraints of work or school obligations.

Preparations for the Diwali Amavasya Mela have been extensive, with local authorities coordinating efforts to ensure a smooth experience for visitors. Recently, Satna Collector Dr. Satish Kumar S and Superintendent of Police Hansraj Singh conducted inspections of key areas in Chitrakoot, including Bharat Ghat and Raghav Prayag Ghat. They reviewed the arrangements for crowd management and security, which are critical given the expected influx of visitors.

To maintain order during the fair, approximately 1,000 police personnel have been deployed. Additionally, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and Home Guards will assist with crowd management and emergency rescue operations. These measures reflect the administration's commitment to ensuring the safety of all participants during this significant religious event.

The announcement of the public holiday comes after requests from various teachers' organizations in Uttar Pradesh. They had urged the government to declare November 7 (Narak Chaturdashi) and November 10 (Govardhan Puja) as public holidays to allow families to celebrate the festival together. The organizations argued that keeping schools open on these days would hinder the ability of students and teachers to participate in family celebrations.

Shiv Shankar Singh, state president of the National Educational Federation, Uttar Pradesh (Primary Wing), and general secretary Pradeep Tiwari, had previously written to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, emphasizing the need for these holidays. Their advocacy highlights the cultural significance of Diwali and the importance of family gatherings during this festive season.

The Diwali Amavasya Mela not only serves as a religious observance but also has substantial economic implications for the local community. The influx of visitors during the fair boosts local businesses, including vendors selling decorative items, food, and religious paraphernalia. The holiday declaration is expected to enhance participation in the fair, leading to increased sales for local merchants.

As the fair progresses, local authorities are also focusing on cleanliness and infrastructure improvements. The collector has directed tourism department officials to conduct a special cleanliness drive at the ghats and surrounding areas, ensuring that the town is presentable for visitors. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the overall experience for attendees and promote Chitrakoot as a pilgrimage destination.

The public holiday declared for November 10 in Chitrakoot is a significant step towards facilitating community participation in the Diwali Amavasya Mela. As families come together to celebrate this important festival, the local administration's efforts in planning and security will play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. With the fair expected to draw large crowds, the holiday will allow residents and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the cultural and spiritual richness of this annual event.