Government employees in Bangladesh will enjoy a continuous five-day break for Durga Puja this year. The Cabinet approved the revised holiday schedule at its 23rd meeting on October 5, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
Durga Puja 2026 Holiday Dates
The government declared October 20, 21 and 22 as holidays. With the weekly holidays on Friday and Saturday, October 23 and 24, the closure effectively runs from Tuesday, October 20, to Saturday, October 24.
- October 20 (Tuesday): Navami, executive order holiday
- October 21 (Wednesday): Bijoya Dashami, general holiday
- October 22 (Thursday): additional holiday under the revised plan
- October 23 and 24 (Friday and Saturday): weekly holidays
What Changed
Offices and courts were originally meant to stay open on Thursday, October 22. The Cabinet approved a proposal to reschedule the public and executive-order holidays announced for the festival, so that day is now a holiday.
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Working Saturday
To balance the extra day off, Saturday, October 17, will be an office day for government offices. Employees should plan for this before the break begins.
When Offices Reopen
Government offices will reopen on Sunday, October 25, the first working day after the break.
Another Holiday Coming
The government has also declared November 7 as a public holiday to observe National Revolution and Solidarity Day.
FAQs
Who gets the five-day break?
Government employees. Private offices and banks usually follow their own notices, so check with your employer or bank.
Is October 17 a holiday?
No. It is a working Saturday for government offices.
Is Durga Puja a public holiday?
Yes, Bijoya Dashami on October 21 is a general holiday.
What Devotees Should Know
Hindu communities across Bangladesh will celebrate with prayers, pandals and cultural programmes. The longer break gives families more time to join the festivities.
