Mumbai will observe a public holiday on February 19, 2026, to mark Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, the birth anniversary of the founder of the Maratha Empire. The day holds immense cultural and historical importance across Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and Kolhapur.
Authorities have announced closures for government offices and banks, while essential and transport services will function as usual. Here is a detailed guide on what residents and visitors can expect.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Holiday: What’s Open & Closed in Maharashtra
February 19 is officially declared a public holiday in Maharashtra. Several services will remain closed, while others will continue to operate normally.
Residents should plan banking, official and educational work accordingly.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Public Transport & Essential Services Will Run As Usual
Despite the public holiday, transportation services in Mumbai will operate normally. Buses, local trains on the Western, Central and Harbour lines, taxis and metro services are expected to adhere to their regular schedules, ensuring that commuters and holiday-makers can travel without disruption.
Essential services such as hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, police and emergency responders will remain open throughout the day. These systems will continue to work to support urgent needs and routine access for residents and visitors alike.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Government Offices & Banks Will Remain Closed
Government offices, including municipal corporations and state-run departments in Mumbai and across Maharashtra, will remain closed on February 19 as part of the state holiday observance.
All banks in Maharashtra will also be closed for the day, as specified in the Reserve Bank of India’s holiday calendar for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. This applies to both public and private bank branches, including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis and others.
While branches will not operate, digital banking services like mobile apps, UPI transfers, internet banking and ATMs will continue to function, enabling many financial transactions online despite the physical closures.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Schools & Colleges Status
Government-run schools and colleges across Mumbai and Maharashtra will observe a holiday on February 19. Private educational institutions may choose their own schedules, so students and parents are advised to check with their respective schools or colleges before planning.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Private Businesses & Offices
Private offices and businesses may follow varied schedules on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti. Some companies may choose to close for the holiday, while others may operate as usual. Employees and visitors are advised to verify opening hours directly with their workplaces or service providers.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Cultural Celebrations & Events
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti is celebrated with enthusiasm across Maharashtra. Cultural events, processions, rallies, traditional music and community gatherings fill the streets of cities. Large crowds often gather to honour his legacy, and roads near celebration venues may experience traffic changes or diversions.
In addition, some areas in Mumbai and other cities might observe dry day restrictions, where the sale of alcohol is temporarily prohibited to maintain decorum during the state holiday.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026: Tips for Residents & Visitors
- Plan banking and personal errands before February 19 since bank branches will be closed.
- Use public transport for travel, as buses, local trains and metro services will run normally.
- Confirm school or college schedules directly with the institution.
- Expect cultural events and potential traffic changes throughout the city.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti 2026
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti commemorates the birth of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1630. He founded the Maratha Empire and played a crucial role in shaping Indian history in the 17th century. Known for his military strategy, administrative skills and progressive governance, he built a powerful kingdom in western India.
He was crowned as the “Chhatrapati (Emperor)” in 1674. His ideas, leadership style, and words still inspire people across the country.
Every year, Maharashtra celebrates the day with pride. Cultural programmes, rallies, dhol performances and processions take place across cities. Many devotees also visit historic forts such as Shivneri, Raigad and Pratapgad to pay tribute to his legacy.
