Rajasthan holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The Rajasthan Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
Rajasthan’s holiday calendar includes significant Rajasthani festivals like Gangaur and the Desert Festival, alongside national holidays. This guide covers the complete 2026 calendar, your obligations, and compliance best practices.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan observes 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays in 2026
- Gangaur and Teej are Rajasthani festivals significant to employers
- Jaipur’s growing IT sector has specific 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 Rajasthan 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 Rajasthan government confirms dates through official notifications.
Optional Holidays in Rajasthan 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 |
| Gangaur | 26 March | Thursday |
| Teej | 31 July | Friday |
What the Law Requires
Rajasthan 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)
Rajasthan-Specific Holidays
Gangaur is a significant Rajasthani festival celebrating Goddess Gauri. It’s widely observed, particularly in Jaipur and other major cities. Many businesses close on this day.
Teej is another important Rajasthani festival, particularly for women. While not always a gazetted holiday, many employers grant leave for it.
Maharana Pratap Jayanti is also observed in Rajasthan. Check the state government’s annual notification for confirmed dates.
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 Gangaur mandatory for private companies in Rajasthan?
Gangaur is a gazetted holiday in Rajasthan. Private establishments are expected to observe it. If employees work on Gangaur, they must receive double wages or a substitute holiday.
Can I grant additional holidays beyond the mandatory list?
Yes. Many employers in Rajasthan grant additional holidays for Teej, Gangaur, and other regional festivals. This is at the employer’s discretion and helps with employee satisfaction.
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.
Tracking Rajasthan’s regional holidays alongside national ones? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records in order.