West Bengal bans liquor on Maha Ashtami, DJs during Durga Puja immersion
The West Bengal government has implemented new restrictions for the 2026 Durga Puja festival, including a ban on liquor sales on Maha Ashtami and a prohibition on DJ music during processions. These measures aim to preserve traditional practices and reduce public disruption.
Why it matters
These regulations reflect state-level efforts to balance large-scale religious celebrations with public order and safety concerns.
In a recent update, West Bengal has introduced some new rules for Durga Puja 2026. As per the latest announcements made by the West Bengal government at a coordination meeting with Durga Puja committees, liquor shops and bars across the state will remain closed on Maha Ashtami. Not only this, DJ music has also been prohibited during Puja celebrations and idol immersion processions. The state’s official 2026 holiday calendar confirms that Maha Ashtami falls on October 19, followed by Maha Navami on October 20 and Vijaya Dashami on October 21.Liquor banned on Maha Ashtami dayOne of the most important changes for this year is the decision to ban liquor on Maha Ashtami, October 19.All liquor shops and bars across West Bengal will remain shut on Maha Ashtami. The state government has made it clear that liquor will not be sold during the day.
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