Chhattisgarh holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 5 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Chhattisgarh Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Chhattisgarh’s holiday calendar includes nationally significant festivals alongside state-specific observances. Raipur’s growing commercial sector and the state’s tribal communities shape holiday patterns.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Chhattisgarh observes 17 mandatory public holidays and 5 optional holidays in 2026
- Harela and Pola are Chhattisgarh-specific festivals significant to employers
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Raipur’s commercial sector has specific scheduling considerations
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Chhattisgarh 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. The Chhattisgarh government confirms dates through official notifications.
Optional Holidays in Chhattisgarh 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Milad-i-Sharif | 5 September | Saturday |
| Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Christmas Eve | 24 December | Thursday |
| Harela | 16 July | Thursday |
| Pola | 26 August | Wednesday |
What the Law Requires
Chhattisgarh 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)
Chhattisgarh-Specific Holidays
Harela is a significant festival in Chhattisgarh, marking the beginning of the monsoon season. It’s widely observed across the state.
Pola is a festival celebrating bulls and bullocks, important in the state’s agricultural communities. Many employers grant leave for this day.
Chhattisgarh Foundation Day (1 November) celebrates the formation of the state. Government offices and banks are closed.
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 Harela mandatory for private companies?
Harela may be an optional or gazetted holiday depending on the state government’s annual notification. Check the official list. Many employers in Chhattisgarh grant leave for it.
Do I need to observe Chhattisgarh Foundation Day?
Chhattisgarh Foundation Day (1 November) is gazetted by the state government. Private establishments are expected to observe it.
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 Chhattisgarh’s regional holidays? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays including Harela and Pola, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records in order.