Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti to be a public holiday in Delhi: CM

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday announced that Valmiki Jayanti will be observed as a public holiday in Delhi every year. She stated that Maharishi Valmiki’s teachings, as reflected in the Ramayana, continue to inspire a society founded on equality, non-discrimination, and collective progress. Speaking at multiple events held across the Capital on the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti,  Ms. Gupta described his life and work as “timeless beacons of equality, humanity, and righteousness.”

Paying tributes to the Adikavi (the first poet), she said, “Through his immortal epic, the Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki showed society the path of ideals, righteousness and compassion. His life symbolises a just and harmonious society where every section progresses together.”

She cited episodes like Shabari’s berries, Kevat’s boat and the squirrel’s effort, noting that they highlight how every individual’s contribution matters. “We aim to ensure that every member of society has access to basic facilities such as education, healthcare, housing, and employment. Delhi’s progress is possible only when every section of society advances equally,” she added.

Attending the New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) event on the occasion, Ms Gupta also praised NDMC’s decision to regularise around 4,500 employees, calling it a “progressive step that reinforces the principles of equality, dignity and social justice.”

While mentioning the Delhi government’s vision of building the city as ‘cultural capital,’ she further said, “In Delhi today, every religion and every tradition is being honoured equally and this is the true vision of Ram Rajya.”

Present at the event, Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra added, “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Delhi Government has made comprehensive preparations to celebrate Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti in every corner of the capital, ensuring that his message of equality, compassion, and human dignity reaches every citizen.”