Image Source: X/ Kalpeshbhai Patel
The national capital is observing a public holiday today to commemorate Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti. All government offices, municipal departments, schools, and public sector banks are closed.
The Delhi government’s General Administration Department (GAD) had issued an official notification earlier this year listing October 7 as a gazetted holiday in honour of the revered sage. Similar holidays are being observed in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, where Valmiki Jayanti is celebrated with religious fervour.
To mark the occasion, several cultural and spiritual programmes are being held across the city. The main celebrations are taking place at the historic Valmiki Mandir near Mandir Marg, one of the oldest temples dedicated to the sage in Delhi.
Devotees have gathered there since early morning to offer prayers, listen to Ramayana Path, and participate in bhajan sessions. Processions, community feasts (bhandaras), and storytelling events are also being organized in areas like RK Ashram Marg, Karol Bagh, and Paharganj.
The Delhi Police has deployed additional personnel to manage crowds and ensure smooth traffic flow, particularly around religious sites and processional routes.
Yes, October 7, 2025, is a dry day in Delhi. The Delhi government’s excise calendar for 2025 lists Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti among official dry days.
As a result, all liquor shops, bars in restaurants, clubs, and hotels have been ordered to remain closed for the entire day. Sale and service of alcohol will resume tomorrow, October 8. The order has been enforced citywide by the Excise Department, and violators could face penalties under the Delhi Excise Act.
While public institutions are closed, private offices, shopping malls, and most commercial markets are open and functioning as usual.
Delhi Metro and DTC bus services are operating normally to ensure smooth connectivity.
Hospitals, pharmacies, and emergency services remain open.
Courts and central government offices that are not part of the Delhi administration may function with limited staff.
However, commuters are advised to expect traffic diversions near major temples and event venues. Key roads near Mandir Marg, Karol Bagh, and Pusa Road may experience temporary congestion due to large gatherings.
Maharishi Valmiki is celebrated as the Adi Kavi, or the first poet of India, and the author of the epic Ramayana, one of the foundational texts of Hindu literature.
According to legend, Valmiki was born as Ratnakar, a forest dweller who later transformed into a saint after deep meditation and penance. His life story symbolizes the power of redemption, spiritual awakening, and the triumph of virtue over sin.
The Ramayana, composed by Valmiki, is not just a story of Lord Rama but also a guide to righteous living (dharma), truth, and compassion — values that continue to shape Indian philosophy and culture.
Valmiki Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) in the month of Ashwin, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, it falls on October 7, 2025.
The festival holds special importance for the Valmiki community, who regard the sage as their spiritual ancestor. Across India, devotees organize processions, temple decorations, and readings from the Ramayana. In some regions, people also engage in community service and charity, reflecting Valmiki’s teachings of equality and compassion.
Besides Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab have declared state holidays. In cities like Lucknow, Chandigarh, and Patiala, processions, music performances, and Ramayana recitals are being held. The celebrations serve as a reminder of India’s literary heritage and the timeless moral guidance of Maharishi Valmiki.
As Delhi and several other states celebrate Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti 2025, the day stands as a tribute to the sage who taught generations about truth, compassion, and righteousness. With cultural programmes, temple visits, and public gatherings, the city comes together to honour the poet-saint whose words continue to inspire millions.
Also Read: October 7 Declared Public Holiday in Many States: Know Why Valmiki Jayanti Is Celebrated
