No Dry Day in Delhi on Holi: Liquor Shops to Remain Open Across Capital

Delhi's Holi celebrations come with a surprise twist this year - no liquor ban.

In a departure from past practice, the Delhi government has dropped Holi from its list of designated 'dry days', meaning alcohol shops across the capital will remain open as revellers mark the Festival of Colours. For years, Holi typically meant shuttered liquor vends. Not this time.

A January notification laid out the official dry days till the end of March, naming Republic Day, Maha Shivratri, Id-ul-Fitr, Ram Navami and Mahavir Jayanti. Holi was not included in the list. Officials have clarified that liquor outlets will operate normally, with closures strictly limited to the dates mentioned in the earlier order. The city has around 750 licensed liquor shops.

The order also makes it clear that vendors cannot claim compensation for any future changes to the dry day schedule. However, hotels are exempt from retail restrictions and may continue serving alcohol to their in-house guests.

As Rangwali Holi - also called Dhulandi - is celebrated today, March 4, the mood across Delhi is festive. But alongside the colour and cheer, authorities are stepping up enforcement on the roads.

The Delhi Traffic Police has deployed personnel at nearly 134 major intersections to ensure celebrations do not spiral into chaos. A special focus has been placed on drunken driving, with strict penalties in place.

Under guidelines from the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety, anyone caught driving under the influence, jumping red lights, over-speeding, using a mobile phone while driving or engaging in dangerous driving could face seizure of their licence and suspension for a minimum of three months.

Police have also warned that action will be taken against vehicle owners if minors or unauthorised individuals are found behind the wheel.