Assam holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 5 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Assam Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Assam’s holiday calendar includes Bihu festivals that are central to Assamese culture. Guwahati’s growing commercial sector and the state’s diverse ethnic communities shape holiday patterns.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Assam observes 17 mandatory public holidays and 5 optional holidays in 2026
- Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu) is the most significant Assamese festival
- Magh Bihu and Kati Bihu are also widely observed
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Assam 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January | Thursday |
| Republic Day | 26 January | Monday |
| Maha Shivaratri | 15 February | Sunday |
| Holi | 10 March | Tuesday |
| Good Friday | 3 April | Friday |
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti | 14 April | Tuesday |
| Buddha Purnima | 1 May | Friday |
| Eid-ul-Fitr | 21 March | Saturday |
| Eid-ul-Adha | 28 May | Thursday |
| Independence Day | 15 August | Saturday |
| Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Dussehra | 20 October | Tuesday |
| Diwali | 13 November | Friday |
| Guru Nanak Jayanti | 3 November | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | 25 December | Friday |
Note: Eid dates are subject to moon sighting. Bihu dates follow the Assamese calendar.
Optional Holidays in Assam 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Milad-i-Sharif | 5 September | Saturday |
| Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Christmas Eve | 24 December | Thursday |
| Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu) | 14 April | Tuesday |
| Magh Bihu | 15 January | Thursday |
What the Law Requires
Assam Shops and Establishments Act
- 18 paid holidays per year, including national holidays
- Display of the holiday calendar at a conspicuous place
- Weekly off in addition to public holidays
- Payment of wages on all public holidays
Three Non-Negotiable National Holidays
- Republic Day (26 January)
- Independence Day (15 August)
- Gandhi Jayanti (2 October)
Assam-Specific Holidays
Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu) is the most important festival in Assam, marking the Assamese New Year. Businesses typically close for 1-2 days. The festival coincides with the harvest season.
Magh Bihu (celebrated in January) is a harvest festival with community feasts. Many employers grant leave on this day.
Kati Bihu is observed in October-November, though it’s less commercially significant than the other two Bihus.
Paying Employees on Public Holidays
Holiday on a Working Day
Grant paid leave at the ordinary rate of pay, or pay double wages if the employee works.
Holiday on a Weekly Off
Provide a substitute holiday on another working day within the month.
Working on a Public Holiday
With written consent, employees may work but must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
Record-Keeping Requirements
Maintain:
- Annual holiday calendar
- Employee leave register
- Double wages payment records
- Consent forms for working on holidays
Keep records for at least three years.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Fine up to ₹5,000 for first violation
- Fine up to ₹10,000 for repeat violations
- Imprisonment up to 3 months for serious breaches
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bohag Bihu mandatory for private companies?
Bohag Bihu may be an optional or gazetted holiday depending on the state government’s annual notification. Many employers in Assam grant leave for it due to its cultural significance.
How many days do businesses close for Bihu?
Most businesses in Assam close for 1-2 days during Bohag Bihu. The exact number depends on the employer’s policy and the state government’s notification for that year.
What if a holiday falls on a weekend?
If a public holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the state government typically notifies a substitute holiday. Check the annual notification for the exact date.
Managing Assam’s Bihu festivals and other holidays? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays including Bohag Bihu and Magh Bihu, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records audit-ready.