Indian stock market open on Rakhi; check 2026 holiday calendar

The National Stock Exchange (NSE), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), and National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) will all operate on normal business hours on Friday, August 28, according to market announcements. This date coincides with Raksha Bandhan celebrations across India, a significant Hindu festival, yet the exchanges have not declared a market holiday for the occasion. This represents a notable shift in holiday scheduling for Indian financial markets and allows traders and investors to continue their regular trading operations during the festival period.

For investors planning their annual calendars, the Indian stock market has designated six additional holidays for the remainder of 2026. These include Ganesh Chaturthi, Dussehra, the Diwali-Balipratipada celebration, Guru Nanak Jayanti, and Christmas. Understanding the complete holiday schedule is crucial for market participants to avoid unexpected closures and plan their investment strategies accordingly.

The holiday calendar holds significance for traders and institutional investors managing Indian equities and commodities. Market closures affect liquidity, trading volumes, and the ability to execute trades or hedge positions. The decision to keep markets open during Rakhi while maintaining traditional closures for other major festivals reflects the exchange's attempt to balance festival observances with market accessibility. Investors should regularly consult official NSE and BSE websites for any updates to the holiday schedule or special trading announcements.

Source: Markets-Economic Times