Restricted Holiday: In India, holidays are categorized into two main types: gazetted holidays and restricted holidays. While gazetted holidays are mandatory and observed nationwide, restricted holidays offer flexibility, allowing individuals to choose whether to take leave based on their preferences or cultural beliefs.
This article explores the concept of restricted holidays and provides a list of key restricted holidays in India for 2025. A restricted holiday is a day off that an organization offers to employees, but it is not mandatory to take. Employees can choose to take this holiday based on their personal, cultural, or religious preferences.
Restricted holidays are also called optional or discretionary holidays. They are different from gazetted holidays, which are officially declared by the government or authorities.
Benefits of Restricted Holidays:
- Spend time with family: Employees can take time off to reconnect with family and friends.
- Take a vacation: Employees can relax and recharge their batteries.
- Explore new interests: Employees can explore new hobbies or interests.
Disadvantages of Restricted Holidays:
- Confusion: There may be confusion about when employees are allowed to take time off.
- Reduced productivity: Employees may take restricted holidays when they are needed most, leading to decreased productivity.
- Inequitable distribution: Some employees may take more time off than others.
Restricted Holiday
Restricted holidays, also known as optional holidays, are days when employees can choose to take leave if they wish. These holidays are not mandatory, and organizations may remain open on these days.
The idea behind restricted holidays is to accommodate the diverse cultural and religious practices of India’s population. Restricted holidays play a crucial role in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.
By allowing employees to take leave on days that are significant to their cultural or religious beliefs, organizations can foster a more inclusive and respectful environment.
| Date | Holiday | Day |
| January 1 | New Year’s Day | Wednesday |
| January 6 | Guru Gobind Singh’s Birthday | Monday |
| January 14 | Makar Sankranti / Pongal | Tuesday |
| February 2 | Basant Panchami | Sunday |
| February 12 | Guru Ravidas’s Birthday | Wednesday |
| February 19 | Shivaji Jayanti | Wednesday |
| February 23 | Swami Dayananda Saraswati’s Birthday | Sunday |
| March 13 | Holika Dahan | Thursday |
| March 14 | Holi | Friday |
| April 16 | Ram Navami | Sunday |
| August 15 | Janmashtami (Smarta) | Friday |
| August 27 | Ganesh Chaturthi | Wednesday |
| September 5 | Onam | Friday |
| September 29 | Dussehra (Saptami) | Monday |
| October 1 | Dussehra (Mahanavmi) | Wednesday |
| October 22 | Bhai Duj | Thursday |
| October 28 | Chhat Puja | Tuesday |
| November 24 | Guru Teg Bahadur’s Martyrdom Day | Monday |
| December 24 | Christmas Eve | Wednesday |
Planning Around Restricted Holidays
Understanding the list of restricted holidays can help individuals plan their leave and ensure they can celebrate important cultural and religious events.
It also allows organizations to manage their workforce effectively and accommodate the diverse needs of their employees.
Related also: Post Office Holiday 2025 Complete List & Closure Dates
FAQs related to Restricted Holiday
What is the meaning of restricted holiday?
An optional holiday that employees can choose to take or not.
How many restricted holidays can be taken?
Employees can take a maximum of two Restricted Holidays (RH) in a calendar year
What are the rules of RH leave?
very employee is eligible for two restricted holidays, regardless of their religion.
Is restricted holiday for students?
These holidays are optional, and employees or schools can choose whether to observe them.
Conclusion
Restricted holidays are an essential aspect of India’s diverse cultural landscape. By providing flexibility in leave options, they help promote inclusivity and respect for various cultural and religious practices. Keeping track of these holidays can help individuals and organizations plan better and ensure a harmonious work environment.