Maharashtra Extends Bar Hours Till 5 AM for Christmas, New Year's Eve

• Maharashtra permits hotels and restaurants with excise licenses to operate until 5 am on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
• The decision follows a request from the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) to meet festive demand.
• Extended hours aim to boost business, enhance tourist experiences, and support employment in the hospitality sector.
• HRAWI President Jimmy Shaw welcomed the move, citing benefits like better guest management and improved state appeal.
• This relaxation addresses previous inconsistencies where liquor-serving establishments were excluded from 24/7 operation.

Why It Matters: Maharashtra's extended bar hours for holidays boost hospitality, tourism, and employment.