Jharkhand holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 5 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Jharkhand Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Jharkhand’s holiday calendar includes tribal festivals like Sarhul and Karma alongside national holidays. Ranchi’s growing commercial sector shapes holiday patterns across the state.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Jharkhand observes 17 mandatory public holidays and 5 optional holidays in 2026
- Sarhul and Karma are significant tribal festivals in Jharkhand
- Jharkhand Foundation Day (15 November) is a state-specific holiday
- Employers must grant at least 18 paid holidays per year
- Establishments must display the holiday list at the workplace
Mandatory Public Holidays in Jharkhand 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 Jharkhand government confirms dates through official notifications.
Optional Holidays in Jharkhand 2026
| Holiday | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Milad-i-Sharif | 5 September | Saturday |
| Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti | 2 October | Friday |
| Christmas Eve | 24 December | Thursday |
| Sarhul | 24 March | Tuesday |
| Karma | 26 August | Wednesday |
What the Law Requires
Jharkhand 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)
Jharkhand-Specific Holidays
Sarhul is the most significant tribal festival in Jharkhand, celebrating the worship of the Sal tree. It’s widely observed across the state, particularly in tribal communities.
Karma is another important tribal festival celebrated with traditional dances and rituals. Many employers grant leave for this day.
Jharkhand Foundation Day (15 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 Sarhul mandatory for private companies?
Sarhul may be an optional or gazetted holiday depending on the state government’s annual notification. Many employers in Jharkhand grant leave for it due to its cultural significance.
Do I need to observe Jharkhand Foundation Day?
Jharkhand Foundation Day (15 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 Jharkhand’s tribal and national holidays? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays including Sarhul and Karma, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records organised.