Holiday Alert: Nation to Observe Muharram on July 7 for Muharram

The Government of India has officially declared Monday, July 7, 2025, as a public holiday in several states to celebrate the beginning of the Islamic New Year and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali during the Battle of Karbala.

Although the preliminary date had been indicated as July 6, the day of the holiday itself has been shifted to July 7 in accordance with moon sighting news, beginning the Islamic month of Muharram.

What To Expect:

Schools, colleges, banks, post offices, and government offices will be closed on the day's occasion.
Even stock markets like the NSE and BSE will be closed, affecting trading in equity, derivatives, as well as currency segments.
The Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) will close the morning session and re-open in the evening session.

Cultural Significance:

Muharram is one of the four holiest months of Islam, and 10th day (Ashura) is commemorated with seriousness, especially by the community of Shia Muslims, as a mourning and remembrance day.

This national celebration demonstrates India's commitment to celebrating its religious and cultural heritage, allowing communities to participate in rituals and processions that celebrate this sacred event.

Sources: ET Now, BankBazaar, Times of India