As India celebrates the vibrant festival of Bhai Dooj, many people in Punjab are wondering: Is Bhai Dooj a public holiday in the state? The short answer is not officially.
While Bhai Dooj is a significant occasion for many, especially among North Indian communities, it is not observed as a gazetted public holiday by the Punjab state government. Bhai Dooj, also known as Bhaiya Dooj or Bhai Tika marks the end of the five-day Diwali festivities. Celebrated on the second day after Diwali, it honors the special bond between brothers and sisters, much like Raksha Bandhan. Sisters pray for their brothers' well-being, and in return, brothers offer gifts and vow to protect their sisters.
This year Bhai Dooj is being celebrated on 23rd October. While most of the schools will reopen after Bhai Dooj, Government offices will observe working day. In states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh Bhai Dooj is more prominently recognized and in some cases, a public holiday is declared. However, Punjab with its distinct cultural traditions and emphasis on Sikh festivals such as Guru Nanak Jayanti typically does not include Bhai Dooj in its official list of holidays.
That said, many private institutions, businesses, and families in Punjab may still choose to observe the festival informally. In urban areas with mixed populations, Bhai Dooj celebrations are more visible, even if not officially recognised by the state.
In 2025, Bhai Dooj falls on October 23 and while it may not be a public holiday in Punjab, its cultural importance among many communities ensures that the festive spirit will still be felt. So, if you're in Punjab and planning to celebrate Bhai Dooj, it's wise to check with your workplace or institution for specific leave policies. The festival may not stop the state, but it certainly warms the hearts of those who observe it.
