Public holidays in India

Public holidays in India are designated days recognized by the Government of India during which the laws of the land declare it to be a non-working day across the country. These holidays may be observed nationwide or by specific states and union territories. They are a blend of holidays originating from different religions, cultures, and significant events in Indian history.

National Holidays

There are three national holidays in India: Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti. These holidays are observed uniformly throughout the country.

Republic Day

Republic Day is celebrated on January 26 each year. It marks the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950, replacing the Government of India Act (1935).

Independence Day

Independence Day is observed on August 15 each year. It commemorates the day when India gained independence from British rule in 1947.

Gandhi Jayanti

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on October 2 each year. It marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.

State and Union Territory Holidays

In addition to the national holidays, each state and union territory in India has its own set of public holidays, which are decided by the respective state and union territory governments. These holidays may be due to religious festivals, such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Pongal; regional festivals, such as Bihu, Navratri, and Onam; or the birth and death anniversaries of notable personalities and leaders.

Restricted Holidays

The Government of India also provides a list of restricted holidays. Employees can choose to take off on any two of these restricted holidays in a year.

See Also

• List of holidays by country
• Public holidays in Pakistan
• Public holidays in Bangladesh