Holi 2026: The government has removed Holi from its list of ‘dry days’, so liquor shops across the capital will remain open this Holi, a senior excise department confirmed on Tuesday. According to an order issued in January this year, only Republic Day, Maha Shivratri, Eid-ul-Fitr, Ram Navami, and Mahavir Jayanti will be observed as ‘dry days’ until the end of March.
“This Holi, there will be no dry day, and liquor shops will remain open. The closure of shops will be observed as per the order issued in January,” the official said.
For the past few years, Holi has been a ‘dry day’ in Delhi. There are around 750 liquor shops in the capital. As per the order, license holders “shall not be entitled to any compensation on account of any changes effected in the above list”, and the restriction on liquor sale on dry days above shall not apply to hotels serving liquor to guests.
Uttar Pradesh
In Uttar Pradesh, authorities have adopted a strict stance ahead of Holi. In Noida, the Excise Department has required hotels, banquet halls, and clubs to obtain an Occasional Bar License (FL-11) if they plan to serve or allow alcohol during events. District Excise Officer Subodh Kumar stated that no leniency will be shown for violations. He added that many people believe that permission is not required for small gatherings, but a license is required wherever alcohol is served.
Officials have also reiterated that the sale of loose liquor or pouched liquor is prohibited in the state. People have been advised to purchase sealed bottles only from authorized shops and report illegal sales. A control room has been set up, and complaints can be lodged on the helpline number 14405. A special enforcement drive is expected in Noida and Greater Noida during the festivals to ensure compliance with the rules.
Maharashtra removes Holi from dry day list
Maharashtra has revised its excise policy, removing Holi from its dry day calendar, along with Muharram and Gandhi Jayanti. Authorized liquor shops in the state will now be allowed to remain open and sell alcohol on these occasions. Officials said the move is aimed at curbing illegal and black-market sales, which often increase when licensed shops are closed. By allowing regulated shops to operate, the government aims to keep sales within the prescribed limits.
Bengaluru
No official notification has been issued regarding a dry day for Holi in Bengaluru. However, reports suggest that the city may observe a dry day in view of the national holiday. Official confirmation from the administration is awaited.
Hyderabad
According to official sources, liquor shops in Hyderabad will remain open from 6 pm on March 2nd to 6 am on March 4th. Officials stated that any violations during this period will result in action under the Hyderabad City Police Act. These restrictions are intended to maintain public order during the Holi festival. People have been urged to follow the guidelines and instructions issued by the city police.
Madhya Pradesh
In Madhya Pradesh, officials have stated that Holi may be celebrated on March 3 in some places, while the main festival is expected to be celebrated on March 4 in some cities. Liquor shops are considering closing on March 4, although there is a possibility that they may reopen after 6 p.m., depending on the final decision. People have been advised to monitor official announcements and plan accordingly.
