Amid the festive spirit following Diwali, the Punjab government has announced two holidays this week, extending celebrations for workers, students, and families. The decision covers October 22 for Vishwakarma Day and October 23 for Gurta Gaddi Diwas, reflecting Punjab’s deep cultural and religious traditions.
Double Festive Break for Punjab
The official notification states that October 22, a Wednesday, will be observed as a public holiday in honor of Vishwakarma Day. The next day, October 23, Thursday, will be a restricted (optional) holiday to mark Gurta Gaddi Diwas of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. This back-to-back break brings added joy to the state, already glowing from Diwali celebrations.
Government offices, schools, and colleges across Punjab will remain closed on Vishwakarma Day. The announcement ensures people have time to participate in traditional ceremonies, prayers, and family gatherings.
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Honoring the Divine Craftsman
Vishwakarma Day is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishwakarma, regarded as the divine architect and patron of engineering, craftsmanship, and industry. On this day, devotees across Punjab perform rituals to seek blessings for success and safety in their work.
Industrial units, factories, and workshops hold special prayers and rituals. Workers decorate their tools and machinery, symbolizing gratitude for their skills and livelihood. Many temples also host community events, offering prasad and prayers in reverence to Vishwakarma’s creative spirit.
Gurta Gaddi Diwas: A Sacred Day for Sikhs
The following day, October 23, will be marked as Gurta Gaddi Diwas, a spiritually significant occasion for Sikhs. The day commemorates the historic moment when Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji was installed as the eternal Guru of the Sikh community.
Though Gurta Gaddi Diwas is a restricted holiday, employees can opt for leave as per departmental rules. Gurdwaras across Punjab will organize kirtan sessions, langars, and religious processions to celebrate the day. Devotees will gather to reflect on the teachings of the Guru and renew their spiritual connection.
A Long Weekend of Faith and Family
With Diwali festivities just concluded, these two holidays create an extended festive weekend for many families across Punjab. The timing has allowed people to blend spiritual observance with relaxation and travel. Towns and cities are expected to see vibrant gatherings, family reunions, and local fairs celebrating the twin holidays.
Markets are already lively, with shops selling sweets, festive decorations, and devotional items. Small businesses, artisans, and local vendors expect a surge in sales during the extended celebrations.
Private Sector Joins the Festivities
Alongside government institutions, several private organizations and businesses in Punjab have also declared holidays or flexible working hours during this festive week. Many companies have granted post-Diwali breaks, allowing employees to travel to their hometowns or participate in local cultural events.
Educational institutions, especially colleges and universities, are using the break for campus maintenance and preparations for upcoming winter sessions. Meanwhile, transport services have increased operations to accommodate the expected rise in travelers heading home for the holidays.
Cultural and Economic Impact
The twin holidays highlight Punjab’s blend of faith, craftsmanship, and community unity. Vishwakarma Day celebrates labor, innovation, and technical skill — values deeply tied to the state’s industrial base. Gurta Gaddi Diwas, on the other hand, reinforces the Sikh tradition of humility, devotion, and service.
Together, these holidays emphasize both spiritual depth and the dignity of work. Local economies benefit from increased spending on travel, food, gifts, and religious offerings, providing a short but meaningful economic boost after Diwali.
State Calendar and Holiday Choices
According to the Punjab government’s 2025 calendar, there are 28 restricted holidays listed, from which employees can choose any two throughout the year. The inclusion of Gurta Gaddi Diwas offers flexibility while ensuring that important cultural and religious dates are recognized.
The government’s approach reflects a balance between administrative function and community sentiment. By offering both fixed and optional holidays, it allows citizens of various faiths and professions to observe traditions important to them.
A Celebration of Unity and Heritage
This festive week brings together multiple strands of Punjab’s identity — industrial pride, spiritual devotion, and communal harmony. From prayer halls to factory floors, from gurdwaras to family homes, celebrations echo the shared joy of faith and hard work.
As the state embraces both Vishwakarma Day and Gurta Gaddi Diwas, Punjab stands as a reminder that progress and spirituality can coexist — when communities honor both creation and Creator.
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