India, Oct. 25 -- New Delhi

Chief minister Rekha Gupta on Friday declared October 27 (Monday), the day of Chhath Puja, a government holiday in Delhi. She said the decision was taken to declare the third day of the four-day event a holiday, as it is the most significant day of festivity, when devotees offer prayers to the sun.

Extending her greetings to devotees, Gupta said Chhath is a festival that celebrates faith, devotion and the harmony between humans and nature.

"Through the worship of the sun and Chhathi Maiya, Chhath conveys a message of purity, environmental protection and gratitude towards nature," she said.

The chief minister said the Delhi government has made elaborate arrangements to ensure cleanliness, safety and essentia...