January 23: Is it a dry day in Kolkata due to Saraswati Puja and Netaji’s birthday? Explained

Friday, Jan 23, 2026: Many people in Kolkata assume alcohol sales will be restricted today because Saraswati Puja (Sree Panchami) and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birthday fall on the same date. While January 23 is observed as a holiday in West Bengal for both occasions, it does not automatically mean a “dry day.”

Dry day vs holiday: what’s the difference?

A public holiday (government offices/banks closed) and a dry day (government-mandated restriction on alcohol sales) are not the same thing. Dry days are typically notified under state excise rules and are most commonly observed on national holidays and select major observance days. That is why an ordinary holiday on the calendar can still have normal alcohol sales unless a separate dry-day notification exists.

Is January 23 a dry day in Kolkata?

Based on the details shared, January 23, 2026 is not a declared dry day in Kolkata, and alcohol sales should operate normally unless an additional last-minute local order is issued. People often confuse this because the date is significant in Bengal, but dry days are usually linked to national holidays or specific notified occasions.

What to expect in Kolkata today (Jan 23)

Kolkata is expected to see a warm, sunny day with temperatures climbing through the afternoon, which is typical of late January patterns. However, air quality may remain a concern, even as the weather stays clear.

Quick takeaway