Why India’s Stock Market Closed on March 3 While Holi Festivities Took Place on March 4

India’s equity markets, including the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), observed a trading holiday on March 3, 2026, for Holi. This closure was part of the annual holiday calendar released by the exchanges last year, which listed 15 trading holidays for 2026.

The decision created confusion among investors, as Holi festivities with colours were widely celebrated on March 4, 2026. However, exchanges aligned the holiday with regional observances and Holika Dahan rituals, which took place on March 2–3 in several states.

Trading across equity, derivatives, and currency segments was suspended for the day, while commodity markets like MCX operated in a split session, closed in the morning and reopened later. Regular trading resumed on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Key Highlights

• Holiday Date: March 3, 2026.
• Reason: Holi festival as per exchange holiday calendar.
• Exchanges Closed: NSE and BSE (equity, derivatives, currency).
• Commodity Markets: MCX shut in morning, reopened later.
• Investor Confusion: Holi colours celebrated on March 4, but markets closed earlier.
• Trading Resumption: Normal operations resumed March 4.

Sources: Mint, The Financial Express, India TV News, Times of India, Business Today