India is gearing up for an important public holiday, and if you’re wondering what will be closed or open, here’s what you need to know. This year, Muharram is expected to fall on July 6 or 7, depending on when the new moon is sighted. While most people are told to mark July 6 on their calendars, the actual holiday might move to July 7 if the moon isn’t seen as planned. Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and marks the start of the Islamic New Year.
So, what does this mean for your daily life? Well, government offices, schools, banks, post offices, and even some private businesses will be closed across many states. This is especially true in places with large Muslim communities, like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Telangana. But since the exact date can change, it’s a good idea to check with your local schools or government for the latest updates—especially if you’re a parent or have important work to do.
If you’re into the stock market, you should know that India’s major stock exchanges—BSE and NSE—will be closed for the day. That means no trading in stocks, derivatives, or currency markets. All these activities will come to a halt, so if you’re planning to buy or sell, you’ll have to wait until the holiday is over.
Banking services will also be affected. Most banks and financial institutions will be shut, so you won’t be able to do things like deposit or withdraw money, or get other banking services. It’s a good idea to finish any important banking work ahead of time to avoid any last-minute hassle.
There’s a bit of an exception with the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX). It will be closed in the morning but will reopen for the evening session, running from 5:00 pm to 11:30 or 11:55 pm. So, if you’re involved in commodity trading, you’ll have a small window in the evening to get things done.
Now, why is Muharram such a big deal? Muharram is considered one of the four sacred months in Islam. For many Muslims, especially Shia Muslims, it’s a time of deep reflection and mourning. The 10th day, known as Ashura, is especially important. It marks the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala way back in 680 AD.
During Muharram, you’ll see prayers, mourning rituals, and religious processions in many communities. It’s a time for people to remember, reflect, and come together as a community.
Because the date of Muharram can change depending on the moon, sometimes there’s a bit of confusion about when exactly the holiday will be. That’s why it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for local announcements and updates from your school, office, or government.
Muharram is a nationally important holiday in India, and it affects everything from schools and banks to the stock market. Make sure you plan ahead and stay updated so you don’t get caught off guard!