Holi 2026, March 2 -- As India gears up to celebrate Holi on March 4, 2026, questions around liquor sales and consumption have once again come into focus. Like every year, whether Holi is treated as a dry day depends entirely on state excise rules - and this time, the approach differs sharply across regions.

Holi celebrations often include private parties, large gatherings and events at hotels and banquet halls. But authorities have reminded citizens and event organisers that alcohol-related regulations remain strictly state-specific.

In Uttar Pradesh, particularly in Noida, officials have adopted a zero-tolerance stance ahead of Holi. The excise department has made it mandatory for hotels, clubs and banquet halls to obtain an Occasiona...