In 2026, Hazrat Ali’s Birthday will be observed on Saturday, 3rd January. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and an important figure in Islamic history. In 2026, it is listed as a Restricted Holiday (RH) in the Government of India calendar, allowing individuals to take the day off subject to their organisation’s restricted-holiday policy. Communities mark the day with prayers, recitations, talks on Hazrat Ali’s life and teachings, and charitable acts.
📜 Holiday Status
Hazrat Ali’s Birthday on 3rd January 2026 is listed as a Restricted Holiday (RH) in the central government calendar. All Central government employees are allowed to take any two RH in a year. It is not a nationwide Gazetted Holiday, though some local administrations or institutions with significant Muslim populations may make additional arrangements.
✨ Significance of Hazrat Ali’s Birthday
The day honours Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib — a respected companion of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the fourth Caliph in Sunni tradition, and the first Imam in Shia tradition. He is widely admired for his knowledge, bravery, piety, and devotion to justice. Observing his birthday is an occasion for reflection on his teachings, moral conduct, and service to humanity.
🎉 How People Observe
Observances vary by community and region but commonly include special prayers, Quran recitations, sermons and lectures on Hazrat Ali’s life, and gatherings at mosques or community centres. Devotees often engage in charitable acts, distribute food, and organize study circles that highlight his sayings and ethical guidance. In some communities, Sufi gatherings and devotional recitations (naat) are also part of the commemoration.
🗓️ Leave Planning
Hazrat Ali’s Birthday falls on Saturday, 3rd January 2026, which is already a holiday for most central government offices, so employees don’t need to use their RH to celebrate the occasion.
🏛️ Daily Life Impact
Here’s how the Restricted Holiday status of Hazrat Ali’s Birthday may affect daily life on 3rd January 2026:
| Sector / Service | Status on 3rd January 2026 |
|---|---|
| Government Offices (Central) | Close (due to Saturday) |
| Banks | Open nationwide |
| Schools & Colleges | Open (unless a local authority declares a holiday) |
| Stock Market (NSE/BSE) | Closed (due to Saturday) |
| Post Offices | Open |
| Mosques / Community Centres | Special prayers and events |
🌙 Regional Observance
Hazrat Ali’s Birthday is observed by Muslim communities across India. The scale and style of observance vary — some regions hold large public gatherings and processions, while others prefer private devotional meetings and lectures. In areas with a significant Shia population, commemorations may be particularly prominent.
📖 Interesting Facts
- Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib was born in the Kaaba in Mecca — a unique distinction in Islamic history.
- He is renowned for his sermons and sayings collected in works like Nahj al-Balagha (the Peak of Eloquence).
- Hazrat Ali is respected across Sunni and Shia traditions, though his role and title differ between branches.
- Observances focus on charity, knowledge-sharing, and moral teachings inspired by his life.
💌 Wishes & Messages
- May the teachings of Hazrat Ali inspire us to live with courage, justice, and compassion. Peace be upon him.
- Wishing you a reflective and blessed Hazrat Ali’s Birthday — may his wisdom guide our actions.
- May this day encourage us to practise charity, humility, and service to others.
❓ FAQs
Q. Is Hazrat Ali’s Birthday a Gazetted Holiday in 2026?
No — it is listed as a Restricted Holiday (RH) in the central government calendar for 2026.
Q. Will banks be closed on 3rd January 2026?
No, banks remain open nationwide unless a specific state or bank branch declares a local closure.
Q. How do communities typically mark the day?
Communities mark the day with special prayers, Quran recitations, sermons, charity distributions, and study circles focusing on Hazrat Ali’s teachings.