Watching the FIFA World Cup final on July 20? Maharashtra lets restaurants stay open till 4 am
The Maharashtra government announced the decision on Sunday, a day before the title clash between defending champions Argentina and Spain.
The Maharashtra dispensation has allowed restaurants, cafes and bars across the state to remain open until 4 am on Monday to facilitate live screenings of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The decision comes just a day before the title clash between defending champions Argentina and Spain.
The decision was taken after the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), Mumbai, requested permission for restaurants, hotels and eateries across Maharashtra to remain open beyond the usual closing time so that customers could watch the live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on July 20.
Permission subject to five conditions
In an order issued by the Home Department, the government said the relaxation has been granted under Section 33 of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951, and will apply only to licensed restaurants, hotels and eateries.
Quick answers to key questions
Restaurants, cafes, and bars in Maharashtra are allowed to remain open until 4 am on July 20 to facilitate live screenings of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
The extension was granted following a request from the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) to support fans watching the live screening of the final match.
Restaurants must deploy adequate private security, avoid illegal or obscene activities, and ensure no public nuisance occurs to comply with the government's guidelines.
States like Delhi, Telangana, and Bengaluru have also extended restaurant operating hours to allow fans to watch the live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
Yes, any violation of laws or public peace could lead to legal action, including the potential withdrawal of the permission to stay open late.
However, establishments must comply with several conditions.
Restaurant owners have been directed to deploy adequate private security inside and outside their premises to ensure that no law and order or public nuisance issues arise.
The order also prohibits illegal activities, obscene acts, loud music or any behaviour that may cause inconvenience to the public. Managements will be held responsible for ensuring compliance.
The government clarified that all existing restrictions applicable to the establishments will continue to remain in force. Any violation of the law or breach of peace could result in legal action, including withdrawal of the relaxation.
The order further states that District Magistrates and Police Commissioners may impose additional restrictions or revoke the relaxation if required, depending on local law and order, public peace and other prevailing conditions.
Delhi, Telangana, Bengaluru extend restaurant timings for FIFA World Cup final
Delhi, Telangana, Bengaluru, Assam have also extended the operating hours of restaurants, cafés and bars to allow fans to watch the live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
The move comes as several states make special arrangements for football fans ahead of the showpiece match.
Messi visited Hyderabad during India tour
Hyderabad hosted Argentina captain Lionel Messi during his 'GOAT India Tour 2025' in December last year.
During his visit, the World Cup-winning footballer took part in a 7-on-7 exhibition match alongside Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. He also interacted with fans, received a rousing welcome from the crowd and met Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.
Meanwhile, Argentina is preparing to defend its title against Spain in the final, as Messi gears up to play against his former club, Barcelona FC's prodigies Pedri and Lamine Yamal.
Messi and his team will be up against the formidable Spanish defence, which has conceded only one goal in the tournament. Spain is aiming for their first FIFA World Cup crown since 2010.
About the Author
Kanishka Singharia is a Senior Content Producer at Mint with a passion for news, trends, and the stories shaping the digital world. She specialises in spotting viral narratives by constantly tracking social media platforms and turning them into engaging, reader-friendly stories. Her work ranges from fast-paced breaking updates to sensitive human-interest features, blending speed with clarity. <br><br> With over four years of experience in news and trend reporting, Kanishka has worked with leading organisations such as Hindustan Times and Times Now. She moves seamlessly between profiling business leaders and telling the stories of everyday people, covering national developments just as effortlessly as the memes and conversations that dominate online culture. <br><br> She also reports on real estate developments and civic challenges in major urban hubs like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Gurugram. Her coverage frequently explores the struggles of startup founders, inspiring journeys of CEOs, and the experiences of candidates dealing with the complexities of visa processes. <br><br> Kanishka holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism from Delhi University and a diploma from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication. Rarely offline, she spends much of her time scrolling through X, LinkedIn, Reddit, Instagram, and Facebook in search of the next big story. When she finally logs off, she enjoys binge-watching shows and exploring cafes in pursuit of good food and better conversations.
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