Confusion over the Muharram holiday date appears to be settling, with several states revising their calendars to observe the festival on June 26, 2026. As the holiday falls on a Friday, many students, parents and working professionals could be in line for a three-day weekend.
The Central government’s holiday calendar lists June 26 as a gazetted holiday for Muharram. Since the observance coincides with a Friday, it is expected to merge with the regular Saturday-Sunday weekend for many institutions and offices.
Earlier, uncertainty prevailed over whether Muharram would be observed on June 25 or June 26. However, following updated lunar assessments and Islamic calendar calculations, several states have aligned their holiday schedules with the expected Ashura observance on June 26.
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States revise holiday schedules
According to reports, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, which had initially announced June 25 as the Muharram holiday, have revised their notifications and shifted the holiday to June 26. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Bihar had already declared June 26 as the official holiday.
As a result, schools, colleges and many government institutions are expected to remain closed on Friday, June 26.
For students and employees in organisations that follow a five-day work week, the holiday could effectively create a three-day break extending through June 28. Institutions operating on Saturdays may also remain closed for Muharram, although schedules may vary.
Holiday impact may differ across states
The extent of the break will depend on state-specific notifications and individual institutional policies. Some government departments, banks and private companies may follow separate holiday calendars based on local administrative decisions.
The holiday arrives shortly after schools reopened in several states, while many colleges are preparing to begin new academic sessions in the coming weeks. In states where summer vacations are still underway, the impact of the holiday may be limited.
Authorities have advised students, parents and employees to verify final holiday schedules through state government notifications and institutional announcements.
FAQs:
When will Muharram be observed in 2026?
Muharram, specifically Ashura, is expected to be observed on June 26, 2026, subject to lunar calendar confirmations.
Will Muharram create a long weekend in 2026?
Yes. Since June 26 falls on a Friday, many schools, colleges and offices may enjoy a three-day weekend along with Saturday and Sunday.
