Bhubaneswar, Oct. 17 -- The Revenue Department on Friday proposed that October 20 (Monday) be declared a public holiday for Diwali in Odisha. However, the final decision is pending for Chief Minister's approval. Only after CM Mohan Majhi gives his consent will the holiday on October 20 be officially confirmed.

Earlier, according to the official government calendar, the Diwali holiday was marked on October 21. This discrepancy has led to confusion regarding the actual date of the festival.

Meanwhile, the Srimandir Mukti Mandap Pandit Mahasabha has already declared that Diwali will be observed on October 20. With this declaration, all eyes are now on the Chief Minister's decision, which will settle the matter for government offices and in...