Durga Puja holiday: When does it start and how long?

The government has announced a two-day public holiday for Durga Puja in 2026.

According to the public holiday calendar issued by the Ministry of Public Administration, 20 October (Tuesday) will be a holiday on the occasion of Mahanavami, while 21 October (Wednesday) will be a public holiday for Bijaya Dashami.

The Durga Puja holiday will therefore begin on 20 October, with a total of two days of public holiday.

In addition to the public holidays, Hindu government employees will be entitled to two optional holidays for Durga Puja, subject to the relevant rules and approval. This means they may enjoy up to four consecutive days off.

Mahalaya will be observed on 10 October (Saturday), followed by Maha Shashthi on 16 October, Maha Saptami on 18 October, Maha Ashtami on 19 October, Mahanavami on 20 October and Bijaya Dashami on 21 October.

Thus, the religious observance will begin with Mahalaya on 10 October, while the government holiday will start on 20 October.