Gujarat holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Gujarat Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Gujarat’s holiday calendar includes unique observances like Navratri and the Gujarat New Year (Bestu Varas). Ahmedabad and Surat’s business communities plan operations around these significant festivals.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat observes 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays in 2026
- Navratri and Bestu Varas (Gujarat New Year) are significant state-specific holidays
- Ahmedabad’s growing IT and manufacturing sectors have scheduling considerations
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Gujarat 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 |
| Bestu Varas (Gujarat New Year) | 14 November | Saturday |
| Guru Nanak Jayanti | 3 November | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | 25 December | Friday |
Note: Eid dates are subject to moon sighting. Bestu Varas follows Diwali.
Optional Holidays in Gujarat 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 |
| Mahavir Jayanti | 2 April | Thursday |
| Navratri (first day) | 17 October | Saturday |
What the Law Requires
Gujarat 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)
Gujarat-Specific Holidays
Diwali is the most significant business holiday in Gujarat. The state celebrates Diwali with Bestu Varas (Gujarat New Year) the day after, making it a 3-4 day holiday period. Most businesses close during this time.
Navratri is hugely celebrated in Gujarat with Garba and Dandiya events. While not always a gazetted holiday for all 9 days, many businesses reduce operations during this period. Employers in Ahmedabad and Surat should plan staffing carefully.
Uttarayan (Makar Sankranti, 14 January) is also widely observed. Gujarat is famous for its kite-flying festival 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
Is Bestu Varas mandatory for private companies?
Bestu Varas (Gujarat New Year) is gazetted by the state government. Private establishments are expected to observe it. If employees work on Bestu Varas, they must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
Do businesses close for all 9 days of Navratri?
Not typically. While Navratri is a 9-day festival, most businesses grant 2-3 days of leave. The exact number depends on the employer’s policy and the state government’s notification for that year.
What if Diwali falls on a weekend?
If Diwali falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the state government typically notifies substitute holidays for Diwali and Bestu Varas. Check the annual notification for specific dates.
Managing Gujarat’s festive holiday calendar? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays including Navratri and Bestu Varas, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records organised.