Delhi public holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory holidays and up to 8 optional holidays that every employer must observe. As the national capital, Delhi follows both central government notifications and the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act.
Delhi’s holiday calendar is shaped by its cosmopolitan population, with significant observances for Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Christian communities. This guide covers the complete holiday list, employer obligations, and compliance requirements.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi observes 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays in 2026
- Guru Nanak Jayanti and other Sikh holidays are widely observed in Delhi
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Delhi follows central government holiday notifications for national holidays
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Delhi 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 |
| Janmashtami | 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. Janmashtami date may vary by the Hindu calendar. The central government confirms dates through official notifications.
Optional Holidays in Delhi 2026
Employees may select two optional holidays from the list:
| 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 |
| Makar Sankranti | 14 January | Wednesday |
What the Law Requires
Shops and Establishments Act (Delhi)
Delhi’s Shops and Establishments Act mandates:
- 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 public holidays
Three Non-Negotiable National Holidays
- Republic Day (26 January)
- Independence Day (15 August)
- Gandhi Jayanti (2 October)
These are compulsory across all states and cannot be replaced.
Delhi-Specific Considerations
Delhi has a diverse workforce, so many employers proactively observe holidays from multiple religious traditions. While not legally required, this practice improves employee satisfaction and reduces absenteeism during festivals that are widely celebrated.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is particularly significant in Delhi’s Punjabi communities. Many businesses close or operate with skeleton staff 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 be required to work but must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
Record-Keeping Requirements
Maintain:
- Annual holiday calendar
- Employee leave register
- Double wages payment records
- Written 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
- Labour department proceedings
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to observe holidays from all religions in Delhi?
You must observe the 17 mandatory holidays notified by the government. Beyond that, you should grant at least two optional holidays per employee from the notified list. Observing additional holidays is at the employer’s discretion but is common practice in Delhi.
Are central government holidays applicable to private companies in Delhi?
Private companies in Delhi must follow the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act. However, the holiday list closely mirrors central government notifications. Check the Delhi government’s annual notification for the definitive list.
Can I ask employees to work on Republic Day?
Yes, with the employee’s written consent. You must pay double wages or provide a substitute holiday. However, Republic Day is a national holiday, so the employee cannot waive their right to paid leave.
Delhi’s diverse workforce means tracking multiple holiday traditions. Leave Balance auto-applies Delhi’s mandatory and optional holidays, manages employee holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records organised.