Archive · 30 Jan 2026
Maharashtra Dry Day on Shaheed Diwas 2026
On January 30, 2026, Maharashtra, including Mumbai, will have a dry day.
This means no alcohol will be sold or served anywhere in the state.
This is because January 30 is Shaheed Diwas, a day to remember Mahatma Gandhi, who was killed on this day in 1948.
The government makes this rule to show respect.
So, if you were planning to have drinks that night, you might want to plan ahead or have a different kind of gathering.
Restaurants and cafes will still be open, but they won't serve alcohol.
It's a day to remember an important person in India's history.
Mahatma Gandhi was a leader who fought for India's freedom using peaceful methods.
His birthday is October 2, 1869, and he was known for his beliefs in truth and non-violence.
People across India will observe a two-minute silence at 11 am to honor him and other freedom fighters.
January 30, 2026, is declared a dry day across Maharashtra, including Mumbai, for Shaheed Diwas.
The sale and service of alcohol will be completely prohibited on this day.
The ban applies to all wine shops, liquor stores, bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants in the state.
Shaheed Diwas commemorates the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, observed with a two-minute silence nationwide at 11 am.
Restaurants and cafes will operate as usual, except for the liquor service.
- Who
- Residents and visitors in Maharashtra, including Mumbai
- What
- Dry day with a ban on alcohol sales and service
- When
- January 30, 2026
- Where
- All districts of Maharashtra, including Mumbai city and suburbs
- Why
- To observe Shaheed Diwas, the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
Government and Traditionalists
Liquor Industry and Critics
Purpose of the Ban
Government and Traditionalists
The ban is a respectful observance of Shaheed Diwas, honoring Mahatma Gandhi's legacy and promoting national unity.
Liquor Industry and Critics
The ban is an outdated restriction that negatively impacts businesses and personal freedoms.
Economic Impact
Government and Traditionalists
The temporary ban is a small sacrifice to uphold cultural values and respect for national heroes.
Liquor Industry and Critics
The ban causes significant financial losses for liquor stores, bars, and restaurants, especially during peak business hours.
- Date
- January 30, 2026
- Event
- Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs' Day)
- Restriction
- Ban on sale and service of alcohol
- Scope
- Entire state of Maharashtra, including Mumbai
- Enforcement
- Maharashtra State Excise Department
- Commemoration
- Death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
- National Observance
- Two-minute silence at 11 am nationwide
- Gandhi's Birthdate
- October 2, 1869
- Assassination Date
- January 30, 1948
- Key Movements
- Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Quit India Movement, Salt March
