The Maharashtra government has announced a local holiday for Mumbai and its suburban areas on Friday, December 6, 2024, in observance of Mahaparinirvan Diwas. The day marks the 68th death anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the chief architect of India’s Constitution and a revered social reformer. While government and semi-government offices in Mumbai and nearby regions will remain closed, the Indian stock markets, including the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE), will function as usual.
According to the official market holiday calendar, trading across all segments, including the Equity Segment, Equity Derivative Segment, and Stock Lending & Borrowing (SLB) Segment, will not be impacted. Additionally, trading in the Currency Derivatives, Commodity Derivatives, and Electronic Gold Receipts (EGR) segments on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) and National Commodity Exchange (NCDEX) will continue as per schedule from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The decision to keep markets operational aligns with the pre-declared list of stock market holidays for 2024. Recent holidays included Diwali on November 1 and Guru Nanak Jayanti on November 15. On November 20, trading was suspended across segments for the Maharashtra Assembly elections. The next stock market holiday is scheduled for Christmas on December 25.
Tribute to Dr. BR Ambedkar
Mahaparinirvan Diwas is a day of remembrance for Dr. BR Ambedkar, who dedicated his life to the upliftment of marginalized communities and the fight against social discrimination. Each year, thousands of people visit Chaityabhoomi, located near Shivaji Park in Dadar, to pay homage. The site is historically significant as the cremation place of Dr. Ambedkar and serves as a focal point for gatherings and processions.
Authorities have advised Mumbai residents to plan travel carefully as large crowds are expected in and around Chaityabhoomi from December 5 to 7. Traffic updates and diversions are being shared to manage the influx of visitors.
While banks across Maharashtra, including public and private institutions such as the State Bank of India (SBI), will remain open, the local holiday highlights the government’s recognition of Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy. This is the third local holiday declared in the state this year after those for Dahi Handi and Ganesh Visarjan.
As Mumbai commemorates Mahaparinirvan Diwas, citizens and institutions alike continue to honor Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to social justice and equality.
