Nightlife across the state is set to get a festive lift after the state home department allowed hotels, clubs, permit rooms and beer bars to operate until 5am on Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Under normal regulations, these establishments are required to close by 1.30am.
The extended hours are intended to ease crowd congestion and accommodate the expected surge in celebrations and tourist footfall during the year-end festive season.
In a partial relaxation for retail liquor outlets, wine shops and country liquor bars have been permitted to remain open until 1am, instead of the usual 10.30pm closing time.
However, the extension does not go beyond this limit, and existing norms for takeaway liquor sales will continue to apply.
Welcoming the decision, Jimmy Shaw, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India), which represents over 2,000 star hotels and premium bars, said the move would help manage guest expectations, ensure smoother dispersal of crowds, create additional employment opportunities and strengthen Maharashtra’s appeal as a vibrant and safe tourism destination.
Officials clarified that the relaxation will be subject to strict adherence to law-and-order requirements, noise control norms and safety guidelines.
Police have been instructed to step up patrolling around major nightlife hubs to curb drunk driving and maintain public order.
Amit Kumar Sharma, past president of the Poona Hoteliers Association, described the decision as a balanced and well-thought-out step that supports the hospitality sector while safeguarding law and order.
Hotel and restaurant owners have also welcomed the advance announcement, noting that it eliminates last-minute uncertainty.
Vikram Shetty, director of Sadanand Resorts and Sadanand Regency, said the circular brings much-needed clarity. He noted that in the past, the absence of clear permissions often resulted in last-minute shutdowns despite preparations. This time, he said, establishments can plan events better, deploy staff efficiently and ensure compliance, while also creating transparency for both operators and the police.
Echoing similar sentiments, Abhishek Sahai, general manager of Conrad Pune, said the relaxation would encourage people to celebrate Christmas and New Year and provide a boost to business, while stressing that authorities should also ensure that celebrants are not inconvenienced.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com