Mumbai, March 21: The Christian community across India is preparing for the observance of Holy Week, with Easter Sunday scheduled to fall on April 5. This significant religious occasion follows the solemn observance of Good Friday on April 3. As a "movable feast", the date of Easter changes annually based on the lunar cycle, specifically occurring on the first Sunday after the Paschal Full Moon.

Key Dates for Holy Week 2026

The 2026 Lenten season culminations are marked by several critical dates on the liturgical calendar:

  • Palm Sunday: March 29

  • Maundy Thursday: April 2

  • Good Friday: April 3

  • Easter Sunday: April 5

While Western Christian denominations (Roman Catholic and Protestant) will celebrate on April 5, Orthodox Christian communities in India, following the Julian calendar, will observe Easter a week later, on April 12, 2026.

Public Holiday and Administrative Status for Easter 2026

In India, the administrative status of these days varies between "Gazetted" and "Restricted" holidays:

  • Good Friday (April 3): This is a Gazetted Holiday nationwide. Central and State government offices, banks, and public institutions will remain closed. Most private sector companies also observe this as a paid holiday.

  • Easter Sunday (April 5): Because it falls on a Sunday, it is naturally a non-working day for most sectors. However, it is officially listed as a Restricted Holiday in the Central Government's 2026 calendar, allowing employees to take an optional leave if their schedule requires it.

Easter Observances Across the Country

Easter in India is characterised by a blend of religious tradition and local culture. In states with significant Christian populations, such as Kerala, Goa, Mizoram, and Meghalaya, the celebrations are particularly prominent. On Good Friday, churches hold solemn afternoon services to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Many congregations organise "Way of the Cross" processions. This transition shifts to a celebratory tone on Easter Sunday, featuring midnight vigils, sunrise services, and festive family gatherings to mark the Resurrection. Easter 2026 Date in India: When Is Easter Sunday? Why Does Easter Date Change? All You Need To Know As Ash Wednesday Marks the Beginning of Lenten Season.

Given that Good Friday creates a long weekend (April 3-5), travel experts anticipate a surge in domestic tourism. Popular destinations like Goa and the hill stations of Northeast India often see high hotel occupancy during this period. Travellers are advised to book transportation and accommodations well in advance to account for the holiday rush.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 21, 2026 09:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).