Bihar holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Bihar Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Bihar’s holiday calendar includes nationally significant festivals alongside state-specific observances. Patna’s growing commercial sector and the state’s agricultural economy both shape holiday patterns.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Bihar observes 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays in 2026
- Chhath Puja is the most significant Bihar-specific festival
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Bihar Day (22 March) is a state-specific holiday
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Bihar 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January | Thursday |
| Republic Day | 26 January | Monday |
| Maha Shivaratri | 15 February | Sunday |
| Bihar Day | 22 March | 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. Bihar Day (22 March) celebrates the formation of the state.
Optional Holidays in Bihar 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Milad-i-Sharif | 5 September | Saturday |
| Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Christmas Eve | 24 December | Thursday |
| New Year’s Eve | 31 December | Thursday |
| Chhath Puja | 18 November | Wednesday |
| Makar Sankranti | 14 January | Wednesday |
What the Law Requires
Bihar 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)
Bihar-Specific Holidays
Chhath Puja is the most significant festival in Bihar, dedicated to the Sun God. It’s a 4-day festival, and most businesses close for 2-3 days. The festival has immense cultural significance across the state.
Bihar Day (22 March) celebrates the formation of the state. Government offices and banks are closed. Private establishments are expected to observe it.
Makar Sankranti (14 January) is also widely observed in Bihar. Many employers grant leave on this day.
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
How many days do businesses close for Chhath Puja?
Most businesses in Bihar close for 2-3 days during Chhath Puja. The festival spans 4 days, and it’s common practice to grant leave for Nahay Khay through Usha Arghya. The exact number depends on the employer’s policy.
Is Bihar Day mandatory for private companies?
Bihar Day is gazetted by the state government. Private establishments are expected to observe it. If employees work on Bihar Day, they must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
What if Chhath Puja falls on a weekend?
If Chhath Puja falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the state government may notify substitute holidays. Check the annual notification for specific dates.
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