The regions covered by the state are quite extensive, given the narrow holiday schedule. It presents a very expansive feel. It is the common holidays that make the states culturally united. The impact of the holiday can vary in the states of Indore, Rewa, or Bhopal, and in the tribal areas towards the eastern bordering areas of Chhattisgarh.
As we are aware, some states give more importance to the language-based holiday calendar, but the policy of the state of Madhya Pradesh is to give importance to holidays related to religion and holidays related to the administration of the districts. Regional holidays are available, but holidays that are more locally important than state-important have been kept out of the official notification.
The table below indicates typical holidays that are commonly notified and observed in Madhya Pradesh, based on a similar calendar system practiced in India.
Madhya Pradesh Holidays for 2026 (Public, National, and Regional)
| Date | Day | Holiday | Holiday Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 01 | Thursday | New Year's Day | Public |
| Jan 26 | Monday | Republic Day | National |
| Feb 15 | Sunday | Maha Shivratri | Religious |
| Mar 04 | Wednesday | Holi | Religious |
| Mar 21 | Saturday | Id-ul-Fitr | Religious |
| Mar 26 | Thursday | Ram Navami | Religious |
| Apr 03 | Friday | Good Friday | Religious |
| Apr 14 | Tuesday | Dr B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti | Public |
| May 01 | Friday | May Day | Public |
| Aug 15 | Saturday | Independence Day | National |
| Sep 04 | Friday | Janmashtami | Religious |
| Oct 02 | Friday | Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti | National |
| Oct 20 | Tuesday | Vijayadashami (Dussehra) | Religious |
| Nov 08 | Sunday | Diwali | Religious |
| Nov 30 | Monday | Guru Nanak Jayanti | Religious |
| Dec 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Religious |
How holidays play out in Madhya Pradesh
The list is strictly followed by all state administrations and government institutions. As far as practical implementation is concerned, the compliance rate varies from region to region. In tribal areas, there are often prolonged slowdowns around some festivals despite the closure being short. In major cities, things get back to normal faster.
The working days for the private sector include national holidays and a few religious festivals. Banks follow the announcements made by the RBI, largely the same list.
Also Read: Holiday List in Karnataka 2026
FAQs
Does Madhya Pradesh have many state-specific holidays?
Fewer than some states. Many regional observances remain local rather than formally notified.
Are holidays observed uniformly across districts?
Administratively, yes. Socially, no.
Do private companies have to follow this list?
No. Private employers set their own calendars.
Why do festival dates change year to year?
Many follow the lunar calendar.
Are banks closed on all these days?
Banks follow RBI-designated holidays, which may differ slightly from the state list.