Muharram 2026 Holiday Update: Are Schools, Banks, and Offices Closed on June 26? State-Wise Details Explained

June 25, 2026 Sheetal

Muharram 2026: Holiday Date Revised in Several States

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar and one of the most significant periods in Islam, is being observed across India with special prayers, processions, and remembrance ceremonies. In 2026, uncertainty regarding moon sighting and the date of Ashura led several state governments to revise their holiday schedules. As a result, many states have shifted the Muharram public holiday from June 25 to June 26, 2026.

The revised announcements have raised questions among students, parents, bank customers, and employees regarding whether schools, banks, government offices, and stock markets will remain closed on Friday, June 26.

Is June 26 a Public Holiday for Muharram?

Yes. In many Indian states, June 26, 2026, has been declared a public holiday to observe Muharram and Ashura. Government notifications were updated after religious authorities and state administrations reviewed lunar calendar calculations.

Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at the Battle of Karbala. The day holds immense religious significance, especially among Shia Muslims, while Sunni Muslims also observe it through prayers and fasting.

Kerala Changes Muharram Holiday to June 26

The Kerala government officially rescheduled the Muharram holiday from June 25 to June 26 after updated religious calendar assessments. Consequently, June 25 became a working day, while June 26 was declared a public holiday across the state. Banks, educational institutions, and government offices are expected to remain closed on the revised holiday date.

The move was made to align official observance with the actual date of Ashura as determined by lunar calculations and religious authorities.

Schools Holiday on Muharram 2026

Schools in many states are expected to remain closed on June 26 for Muharram observance. Educational institutions generally follow state government holiday notifications and academic calendars.

States where schools typically observe Muharram holidays include:

Delhi
Maharashtra
Karnataka
Telangana
Andhra Pradesh
Kerala
Uttar Pradesh
West Bengal
Several other states and union territories

Parents and students are advised to check official school notifications because holiday schedules may vary depending on local administration and school boards.

Andhra Pradesh Revises Muharram Holiday Schedule

The Andhra Pradesh government has also revised its holiday calendar for Muharram 2026. According to updated orders, the general holiday initially scheduled for June 25 was shifted to June 26 to align with revised religious calculations regarding Ashura.

The revised schedule affects schools, government offices, and public institutions across the state.

Will Banks Remain Closed on June 26?

In many states, banks are expected to remain closed on Friday, June 26, due to Muharram. The holiday follows Reserve Bank of India guidelines and state-wise holiday schedules. However, closures may differ depending on local observance and regional holiday declarations.

Customers are advised to complete urgent banking transactions in advance. Online banking, mobile banking, UPI services, ATMs, and digital payment platforms will continue functioning normally despite branch closures.

Are Government Offices Closed?

Most state government offices observing Muharram as an official public holiday are expected to remain closed on June 26. Public services may operate with limited staff in some locations, while emergency services such as hospitals, police departments, and disaster response agencies will continue functioning.

Stock Market Holiday on Muharram

Investors should note that Indian stock exchanges are scheduled to remain closed on June 26, 2026, in observance of Muharram. Trading on both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) will be suspended for the day. Regular trading will resume on the next working session.

Significance of Muharram and Ashura

Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and is regarded as one of the holiest months in Islam. The most significant day is Ashura, which commemorates the sacrifice of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

The occasion is observed through prayers, reflection, charitable activities, fasting, and mourning processions in many parts of India and around the world.

Conclusion

Muharram 2026 will be observed on June 26 in several Indian states following revised government notifications and updated lunar calendar assessments. Schools, banks, government offices, and stock markets are expected to remain closed in many regions. Since holiday schedules can vary by state, citizens are encouraged to verify local announcements and institutional notifications before making plans.