Delhi Government Announces Major Change for Holi Celebrations

The Delhi government has made a significant change for Holi 2023 by removing the 'Dry Day' status, allowing liquor stores to operate normally. This decision breaks from tradition and is part of a broader initiative to enhance celebrations. Additionally, the Delhi Traffic Police are implementing strict measures against drunk driving, with personnel stationed at major intersections to ensure safety. Offenders may face license suspensions for serious violations. As the city prepares for the joyous occasion of Rangwali Holi, these new regulations aim to balance celebration with safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 4, 2026, 10:54 IST

Holi Celebrations in Delhi: A New Approach

The Delhi government has introduced a significant change for this year's Holi festivities. Breaking from a long-standing tradition, Holi will not be classified as a 'Dry Day' this time. This means that all liquor stores in Delhi will remain open today, on the occasion of Dhulandi, just like any regular day. An official order from the Delhi Excise Department issued in January stated that only Republic Day, Maha Shivratri, Eid-ul-Fitr, Ram Navami, and Mahavir Jayanti would be recognized as Dry Days until the end of March.

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According to the January directive, only the aforementioned holidays will be designated as Dry Days. Officials confirmed, "There will be no Dry Day for Holi, and liquor stores will operate normally. The stores will remain closed only as per the January order."

In recent years, Holi was typically included in the Dry Day list in the capital, where approximately 750 liquor outlets are located. The order also clarified that license holders would not receive any compensation for changes to the Dry Day list, and restrictions on alcohol sales would not apply to hotels serving alcohol to their guests.

Holi, often referred to as the 'Festival of Colors,' is celebrated with joy across India. This year, Rangwali Holi, also known as Dhulandi, is being celebrated today, March 4.

Strict Measures Against Drunk Driving

The Delhi Traffic Police have deployed personnel at around 134 major intersections throughout the city for Holi, enforcing strict measures against drunk driving. Offenders may face a suspension of their driving license for a minimum of three months.

In a detailed traffic advisory, the police stated that special checking teams would be stationed at major junctions and vulnerable roads to prevent offenses such as drunk driving, speeding, reckless driving, jumping red lights, triple riding, riding without helmets, and performing stunts on two-wheelers.

Following directives from the Supreme Court's Road Safety Committee, offenders caught driving under the influence, jumping red lights, using mobile phones while driving, engaging in dangerous driving, and speeding may have their driving licenses confiscated and suspended for at least three months, as noted in the advisory.

Additionally, action will be taken against registered vehicle owners if minors or unauthorized individuals are found driving their vehicles.