The government has decided to allow shopping malls, markets and shops to remain open until 10pm until October 22 on the occasion of the upcoming Sharadiya Durga Puja. During this period, these establishments can remain open from 11am to 10pm.

The Electricity Division of the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources issued a letter in this regard on Monday (October 5). The letter was sent to the mayors and administrators of city corporations, divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners.

Under the previous government directive, shopping malls, markets and shops were allowed to remain open from 11am to 8pm. The new decision extends the closing time by two hours during the Durga Puja period.

According to the letter, shopping malls, markets and shops across the country can remain open from 11am to 10pm until October 22 as part of the arrangements for Sharadiya Durga Puja 2026.

However, the previous schedule will come into effect again from October 23. From that day, shopping malls, markets and shops will be allowed to remain open from 11am to 8pm.

This year’s Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations will officially begin with Maha Shashthi on October 16. The festival will conclude with the immersion of idols on Bijoya Dashami on October 21.

The government holiday for Durga Puja will run from October 20 to October 24.