Stock Market Holiday 2026: NSE and BSE Closed on Dussehra
Stock Market Holiday 2026: NSE and BSE Closed on Dussehra
The Indian stock market, including the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), will remain closed on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in observance of the Dussehra festival. This holiday marks the second market closure in October, following the Gandhi Jayanti holiday earlier in the month.
Why Is the Market Closed on Dussehra?
Dussehra is a major Hindu festival celebrated across India, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Given the cultural significance of the day, the NSE and BSE observe a full trading holiday to allow investors and market participants to observe the festivities.
Remaining Stock Market Holidays in 2026
In 2026, a total of 16 stock market holidays are scheduled, out of which 12 have already passed by mid-October. After the Dussehra holiday on October 20, the markets will close three more times before the year ends:
- November 10: Diwali-Balipratipada
- November 24: Guru Nanak Jayanti
- December 25: Christmas Day
It’s noteworthy that some holidays like Independence Day (August 15) and Diwali Laxmi Pujan (November 8) fall on weekends in 2026, which means they do not lead to additional market closures.
Special Trading Sessions: Muhurat Trading
While the stock market will be closed on Diwali Laxmi Pujan day (November 8, 2026), a special trading session known as Muhurat Trading is traditionally held on this day. Muhurat Trading is considered auspicious and marks the beginning of the Hindu financial year. It offers investors a limited-time session to place trades and start the new financial year positively.
Why This Matters to Investors
Knowing the stock market holiday calendar is essential for investors to plan their trading and investment activities effectively. Market closures can impact liquidity and the timing of transactions, so awareness of upcoming holidays helps in managing portfolios without last-minute surprises.
What Investors Should Watch Next
Investors should keep an eye on the remaining trading days carefully, especially around major festivals like Diwali when market sentiment might be influenced by the festivities and special trading sessions. Additionally, monitoring global cues and sector-specific trends can provide better insights during holiday-affected trading periods.
With the last market holiday of 2026 scheduled for Christmas Day on December 25, investors have a clear timeline to manage their year-end trading and portfolio adjustments accordingly.
In summary, the stock market will be closed on October 20, 2026, for Dussehra, with a few more holidays remaining before the year ends. Staying informed about these key dates ensures smooth trading strategies and better investment planning.

