Punjab will observe a public holiday on Monday, November 16, 2026, to mark the martyrdom day of Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, one of the youngest and most inspiring revolutionaries of India’s freedom struggle.
The holiday is included in Punjab’s 2026 government holiday calendar. The day is dedicated to remembering the supreme sacrifice of Kartar Singh Sarabha, who became a symbol of courage, patriotism and resistance against British rule.
Born on May 24, 1896, in Sarabha village of Ludhiana district, Kartar Singh Sarabha became actively associated with the Ghadar Party, which sought to overthrow British rule and liberate India. He worked for the party’s revolutionary newspaper, Ghadar, and helped mobilise Indians against colonial rule.
He was arrested in connection with the Lahore Conspiracy Case and was sentenced to death by the British authorities. On November 16, 1915, he was hanged at Lahore Central Jail at the age of just 19. His sacrifice later inspired several revolutionaries, including Shaheed Bhagat Singh.
* Punjab government public offices will observe the gazetted holiday.
* Government employees will get a holiday.
* Schools and colleges are generally expected to observe the occasion, subject to their respective holiday instructions.
* Private offices and commercial establishments should check their applicable holiday policies.
The holiday is specifically listed as the martyrdom day of Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha in the Punjab holiday calendar.
November 16 is not just another public holiday for Punjab. It is a day to remember a young revolutionary who sacrificed his life for India’s freedom at the age of 19. His courage, patriotism and contribution to the Ghadar Movement continue to hold a special place in Punjab’s history.
