Liquor outlets across Delhi will function as usual on Holi this year, after the festival was excluded from the government’s notified list of ‘dry days’. A senior official from the excise department confirmed on Tuesday that there will be no restriction on the sale of alcohol in the national capital on March 4.
An order released in January had specified the dry days to be observed until the end of March. The list includes Republic Day, Maha Shivratri, Id-ul-Fitr, Ram Navami and Mahavir Jayanti. Holi, however, does not feature in the current list.
“This Holi, there is no dry day. Liquor shops will operate normally as per the January notification,” the official said. In previous years, Holi was typically marked as a dry day in Delhi. The city currently has around 750 licensed liquor vends.
The order further clarifies that licence holders will not be entitled to compensation if changes are made to the dry day list. It also states that the restriction on liquor sales during notified dry days does not apply to hotels serving alcohol to in-house guests.
Hyderabad to Enforce Prohibitory Orders
In Hyderabad, authorities have announced prohibitory orders from 6 p.m. on March 2 until 6 a.m. on March 4. Officials said strict action will be taken under the Hyderabad City Police Act against anyone found violating the restrictions. The measures are aimed at maintaining public order during Holi celebrations. Residents have been urged to comply with the directions issued by the city police.
Bengaluru Awaits Official Clarity
In Bengaluru, no formal notification has been issued so far regarding a dry day for Holi. However, reports indicate that the city may observe a dry day due to the national holiday. An official announcement from the administration is still awaited.
Maharashtra Revises Dry Day Calendar
Maharashtra has amended its excise policy and removed Holi, Muharram and Gandhi Jayanti from its list of dry days. Licensed liquor shops across the state will now be permitted to operate on these occasions. Officials said the decision is intended to discourage illegal and black-market sales that tend to increase when authorised outlets are shut. By allowing regulated stores to function, the government aims to keep alcohol sales within the legal framework while improving monitoring and control. Other sensitive or nationally significant days may continue to be observed as dry days under existing provisions.
Uttar Pradesh Takes Strict Measures
Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have adopted a stricter stance ahead of Holi. In Noida, establishments such as hotels, banquet halls and clubs must obtain an Occasional Bar Licence (FL-11) if they plan to serve or allow alcohol consumption during events. District Excise Officer Subodh Kumar said there will be no relaxation for violators, noting that even small gatherings require prior approval if liquor is to be served.
He emphasised that legal action will be initiated against any venue found serving alcohol without a valid licence. The sale of open liquor or alcohol in pouches remains prohibited in the state. Residents have been advised to purchase sealed bottles only from authorised shops and to report illegal sales. A control room has been activated, and complaints can be lodged through helpline number 14405. Enforcement drives are also planned in Noida and Greater Noida during the festive period.
Madhya Pradesh May Review Timings
In Madhya Pradesh, officials indicated that while Holi may be observed on March 3 in some areas, major celebrations in certain cities are expected on March 4. Authorities are considering whether liquor shops should remain closed on March 4, though there is also a possibility that outlets could reopen after 6 p.m., subject to a final decision. Residents have been advised to keep track of official notifications before making plans.
