As India prepares for the Holi festivities on March 4, 2026, the rules regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol remain a patchwork of different state and local excise regulations. While many celebrate with music and gatherings at hotels or clubs, whether you can purchase spirits depends largely on your location.

Strict Closures In Noida And Delhi-NCR

In Noida, authorities have taken a firm stance to ensure public order. District Excise Officer Subodh Kumar confirmed that March 4th is a designated dry day. All retail outlets, including country liquor, composite shops, and premium stores, must remain shut.

Military canteens and licensed bars (FL-6, FL-7) are also prohibited from operating for the full 24 hours.

Delhi-NCR: Following the pattern of previous years, a temporary closure of shops is expected across the capital region, though official notifications are still pending in some pockets of Gurugram and Delhi.

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Divergent Rules In Hyderabad And Bengaluru

Hyderabad: The city has implemented a strict prohibitory window. Alcohol sales are banned from 6 pm on March 2 until 6 am on March 4. The city police have warned that any violations will be prosecuted under the Hyderabad City Police Act.

Bengaluru: While no formal notification has been released yet, local reports suggest a dry day is likely given the national holiday status. Residents are advised to wait for a final confirmation from the district administration.

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Maharashtra: A Major Policy Shift

In a significant departure from tradition, Maharashtra has removed Holi from its official dry day calendar.

Authorities revised the policy to combat the black market and illegal sales that often surge during holidays. Authorised liquor shops in the state are now permitted to stay open, ensuring sales remain within a regulated legal framework.

Uttar Pradesh: Mandatory Licensing For Private Parties

Beyond the March 4 shop closures, the excise department in Uttar Pradesh is cracking down on illegal serving at events.

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FL-11 License: District Excise Officer Subodh Kumar emphasised that hotels, banquet halls and clubs must obtain an "Occasional Bar Licence" if they plan to serve alcohol during Holi events.

Zero Tolerance: Authorities warned that even small gatherings require this permit. Serving alcohol without it will lead to immediate legal action. The sale of open liquor or pouches is strictly banned. Residents can report illegal activities via the state helpline at 14405.

Madhya Pradesh: Potential Evening Openings

The situation in Madhya Pradesh remains fluid. While March 4 is being considered for closure, there is a possibility that shops may be allowed to reopen after 6 pm once the main daytime festivities conclude. A final decision is expected shortly.