India Holidays
Major public holidays celebrated in India in 2026.
India has 12 major public holidays listed below. Of these, 4 fall on the same calendar date every year, 6 change date each year (set by Easter, a lunisolar calendar or the equinox), 2 depend on the Islamic lunar calendar and are approximate.
Republic Day
January 26Marks adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950
Maha Shivaratri
February 15, 2026Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva
Holi
March 4, 2026Festival of colors welcoming spring
Good Friday
April 3, 2026Commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ
Eid ul-Fitr
March 20, 2026 (approx.)Marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan
Independence Day
August 15Celebrates freedom from British rule in 1947
Janmashtami
September 4, 2026Celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna
Gandhi Jayanti
October 2Birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation
Dussehra
October 20, 2026Celebrates victory of good over evil
Diwali
November 8, 2026Festival of lights celebrating good over evil
Eid ul-Adha
May 27, 2026 (approx.)Islamic Feast of Sacrifice
Christmas Day
December 25Celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ
About these dates
This list covers nationwide public holidays. Regional, state or provincial holidays are not included, and governments sometimes announce extra days off or move a holiday when it falls on a weekend. Dates marked "approx." follow the Islamic lunar calendar and are confirmed by moon sighting, so they can shift by a day. Always check with official government sources before making travel or business plans.