KARACHI: Members of the Hindu community in Sindh will be able to observe Diwali-related holiday arrangements on Monday, November 9, 2026, according to the province’s 2026 holiday calendar.
The date is also being observed as Allama Iqbal Day, a nationwide public holiday in Pakistan.
The Sindh High Court’s official holiday calendar lists Diwali on November 9 under optional holidays. It also states that non-Muslim government employees may avail themselves of up to three optional holidays during the year, subject to prior approval from their department heads.
Diwali, widely known as the festival of lights, will fall on Sunday, November 8, this year. The following day, November 9, is listed as the Diwali-related optional holiday in the provincial calendar.
The distinction is important because the Diwali entry is an optional holiday for eligible employees, while Allama Iqbal Day is a general public holiday.
Diwali is among the most significant festivals celebrated by Hindus. The occasion represents the victory of light over darkness and is associated with hope, prosperity and new beginnings.
Hindu families traditionally mark the festival by decorating their homes with lamps, candles and colourful lights. They also arrange religious prayers, prepare special food, exchange sweets and visit relatives.
Sindh has a large Hindu population, with communities living in Karachi and several other districts across the province. The festival is observed through religious gatherings and family celebrations.
The provincial holiday calendar provides guidance for government employees seeking leave for religious occasions. Under its rules, employees must obtain permission from their department heads before taking an optional holiday.
The November 9 date also coincides with the birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, which is observed nationally as Iqbal Day.
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Hindu community members in Sindh can therefore plan their Diwali celebrations around the November 8 festival date and the following day’s holiday arrangements.
