Mahavir Jayanti — one of the most sacred festivals in Jainism — falls on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, marking the 2,624th birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara. But the big question for students, parents, and teachers is: will schools remain closed?
Here’s everything you need to know, state by state.
Table of Contents
Why Is Mahavir Jayanti a Public Holiday?
Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, highlighting principles like non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), and compassion. Sakshi Post It is a gazetted public holiday in India, with most schools, colleges, and government institutions observing the holiday. India.com
State-Wise School Holiday Status — March 31, 2026
| State | Schools Closed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ✅ Yes | Gazetted holiday |
| Uttar Pradesh | ✅ Yes | Listed in state holiday calendar |
| Maharashtra | ✅ Yes | Also a dry day |
| Gujarat | ✅ Yes | Widely observed |
| Rajasthan | ✅ Yes | Public holiday |
| Bihar | ✅ Yes | Gazetted holiday |
| West Bengal | ✅ Yes | Gazetted holiday |
| Jharkhand | ✅ Yes | Gazetted holiday |
| Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal) | ⚠️ Shifted | Bhopal shifted the holiday to March 30 Dainikjagranmpcg |
| Karnataka | ⚠️ Check locally | Holiday date revised in some areas |
| Other States/UTs | ❌ May stay open | States not observing it as a public holiday will operate normally Zee News |
What About Banks, Offices & Stock Markets?
The Indian stock market will remain shut on Tuesday — trading on BSE and NSE will be suspended in all segments including equities, equity derivatives, and currency derivatives.
However, RBI has made a major change this year, keeping banks open in several states due to financial year-end closing. Obnews So don’t assume your bank is shut — always confirm locally.
Quick Tips for Students & Parents
- ✅ Government school students — you’re almost certainly getting the day off in the states listed above.
- ⚠️ Private school students — check with your school directly, especially if exams are scheduled.
- 🏦 Bank users — digital services remain available even where branches are closed.
Also check: India Holiday Calendar 2026 – Full List of Public Holidays and Bank Holidays April 2026 – State-Wise Complete List
FAQs
Q: Is Mahavir Jayanti a gazetted holiday across all of India?
It is gazetted in many states like Delhi, UP, Maharashtra, and Bihar, but not universally — some states and UTs do not observe it officially.
Q: Will private schools also be closed on March 31?
Most private schools follow state holiday lists, but schools conducting exams may stay open — always verify with your institution directly.
