India

India : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in India

India is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its numerous public holidays. These holidays celebrate religious, national, and cultural events across various communities. Many of these dates are observed nationwide, while some are specific to certain states or regions. The observances often include traditional rituals, festivals, parades, and public ceremonies.

• Makar Sankranti / Pongal
  Marks the harvest festival celebrated mainly in North and South India, respectively. It signifies the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar). Traditions include kite flying, feasts with newly harvested crops, and decorating cattle.
  Date: January 14 (fixed)
  Observance: Regional, harvest celebrations

• Republic Day
  Commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. The main event is a grand parade in New Delhi showcasing India's cultural diversity and military strength.
  Date: January 26
  Observance: Nationwide, official ceremonies and parades

• Holi
  Known as the Festival of Colors, it celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. People throw colored powders, sing, dance, and share sweets.
  Date: Varies (usually March) – full moon day of Phalguna month
  Observance: Nationwide, festive celebrations

• Eid ul-Fitr (estimated)
  Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Muslims gather for prayers, feasting, and charity. The exact date is determined by moon sighting.
  Date: Varies according to lunar calendar
  Observance: Islamic communities, prayers, feasts

• Palm Sunday
  Commemorates Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, observed by Christian communities with church services and processions.
  Date: Sunday before Easter
  Observance: Christian communities

• Good Friday
  Observes the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Christians attend church services and reflect on the sacrifice of Christ.
  Date: Friday before Easter Sunday
  Observance: Christian communities

• Easter Sunday
  Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Marked by church services, family meals, and festive events.
  Date: Varies (March or April)
  Observance: Christian communities

• Labour Day
  Honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. Often marked by rallies, speeches, and cultural programs.
  Date: May 1
  Observance: Nationwide

• Eid al-Adha (estimated)
  Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, it mourns the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Includes prayer, animal sacrifices, and charity.
  Date: Varies according to lunar calendar
  Observance: Islamic communities

• Feast of Pentecost
  Celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Christian services and prayers are held.
  Date: 50 days after Easter
  Observance: Christian communities

• Day of Ashura (estimated)
  A solemn day observed by Muslims, particularly Shia Muslims, commemorating the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali. Includes fasting and prayer.
  Date: 10th day of Muharram in the Islamic calendar
  Observance: Islamic communities

• Independence Day
  Marks India’s freedom from British rule on August 15, 1947. Celebrations include flag hoisting, cultural programs, and patriotic events.
  Date: August 15
  Observance: Nationwide, official ceremonies

• Mawlid (estimated)
  Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad with prayers, processions, and communal meals.
  Date: Varies according to lunar calendar
  Observance: Islamic communities

• Gandhi Jayanti
  Honors the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India’s independence movement. Activities include prayer services and community clean-ups.
  Date: October 2
  Observance: Nationwide

• Diwali
  Known as the Festival of Lights, it celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Involves lighting oil lamps, fireworks, and sharing sweets.
  Date: Varies (usually October or November)
  Observance: Nationwide, major cultural festival

• Christmas Day
  Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ with church services, decorations, and gift-giving.
  Date: December 25
  Observance: Christian communities

Site officiel de référence

• Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions - Government of India