West Bengal holidays in 2026 include 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays that every employer must grant. The West Bengal Shops and Establishments Act requires all commercial establishments to observe these holidays and provide paid leave.
West Bengal’s holiday calendar reflects its rich cultural heritage, with Durga Puja being the most significant festival. 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
- West Bengal observes 17 mandatory public holidays and up to 8 optional holidays in 2026
- Durga Puja is the most significant festival, with businesses closing for 4-5 days
- Kolkata’s IT and services sectors have 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 West Bengal 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 |
| Durga Puja (Ashtami) | 17 October | Saturday |
| Durga Puja (Navami) | 18 October | Sunday |
| Dussehra | 20 October | Tuesday |
| Diwali | 13 November | Friday |
| Guru Nanak Jayanti | 3 November | Tuesday |
| Christmas Day | 25 December | Friday |
Note: Durga Puja dates follow the Hindu calendar and may vary. Eid dates are subject to moon sighting.
Optional Holidays in West Bengal 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 |
| Saraswati Puja | 2 February | Monday |
What the Law Requires
West Bengal 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)
West Bengal-Specific Holidays
Durga Puja is the most important festival in West Bengal. Businesses across the state close for 4-5 days, and it’s common to grant additional days beyond the mandatory requirement. The festival typically falls in October.
Kali Puja (coinciding with Diwali) and Saraswati Puja are also widely observed. Kolkata’s cultural calendar is shaped by these festivals, and employers should plan staffing accordingly.
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
How many days do businesses close for Durga Puja?
Most businesses in West Bengal close for 4-5 days during Durga Puja. While the gazetted holidays cover 2-3 days, it’s common practice to grant additional days. Many employers close from Sastami through Biswakarma Puja.
Is Durga Puja mandatory for private companies?
Durga Puja holidays are gazetted by the state government. Private establishments are expected to observe them. The exact number of gazetted days varies by year.
What if Durga Puja falls on a weekend?
If Durga Puja holidays fall on a weekend, the state government may notify substitute holidays. Check the annual notification for specific substitution rules.
Managing Durga Puja and other West Bengal holidays? Leave Balance auto-applies state-specific holidays, manages optional holiday requests, and keeps your compliance records audit-ready.