Bank Holidays India 2025 – Everything You Need to Know

Bank holidays in India aren’t just a chance to relax; they affect when you can walk into a branch, cash a cheque, or get a loan approved. If you’ve ever stood in a queue only to find the teller’s desk closed, you know the frustration. This guide breaks down the 2025 bank holiday calendar, tells you which states observe each holiday, and shows you how to keep your finances moving with digital tools.

2025 Bank Holiday Calendar

Below is a quick snapshot of the major holidays that RBI‑listed banks will observe this year. Remember, some holidays are pan‑India while others are state‑specific, so always double‑check with your local branch.

• January 14 (Wednesday) – Makar Sankranti – Nationwide closure.
• January 25 (Sunday) – Republic Day (Observed) – All banks closed on Monday, Jan 26.
• February 21 (Friday) – Mahashivratri – Banks in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and several northern states close.
• March 7 (Friday) – Holi – Most banks shut across the country.
• March 30 (Sunday) – Good Friday (Observed) – Banks closed on Monday, March 31.
• April 14 (Wednesday) – Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti – Nationwide.
• May 1 (Saturday) – Labour Day (Observed) – Banks close on Monday, May 3.
• July 6 (Tuesday) – Eid‑ul‑Fitr (Observed) – Banks close on Monday, July 5.
• August 15 (Sunday) – Independence Day (Observed) – Banks close on Monday, Aug 16.
• August 25 (Monday) – Janmashtami – Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and many states shut branches. Digital services stay live.
• October 2 (Saturday) – Gandhi Jayanti (Observed) – Banks close on Monday, Oct 4.
• October 31 (Sunday) – Dussehra (Observed) – Banks close on Monday, Nov 1.
• November 12 (Friday) – Diwali – Nationwide closure.
• December 25 (Saturday) – Christmas (Observed) – Banks close on Monday, Dec 27.

These dates are based on the RBI’s official holiday calendar. Some private banks may add extra holidays, especially for regional festivals, so keep an eye on your bank’s announcements.

Banking When Branches Are Closed

Even when the physical doors are shut, your money doesn’t have to stop moving. Here are the most reliable ways to handle transactions during a bank holiday:

1. UPI and Mobile Apps: Payments, transfers, and bill payments work 24/7. Ensure your UPI PIN is set up and your app is updated.
2. Net Banking: Log in to your account for fund transfers, account statements, and loan applications. Some banks schedule batch processing, so a transfer might complete the next working day.
3. ATMs and Cash Deposits: ATMs stay operational unless there’s a power outage. Many ATMs now accept cash deposits, which are credited instantly or by the next business day.
4. Cheques and Demand Drafts: You can drop a cheque in the bank’s drop box or use an overnight courier. The clearance will start once the bank reopens.
5. Customer Care: Phone and chat support remain active. Use them for balance queries, block lost cards, or get information about upcoming holidays.

Pro tip: Schedule recurring payments a day before a known holiday. This avoids missed EMI dates, utility bills, or loan instalments that could trigger penalties.

Finally, keep a small emergency cash stash. While digital banking is convenient, a sudden power cut or network issue during a holiday could delay transactions. Having a few hundred rupees on hand means you won’t be stuck.

Bank holidays are part of the Indian calendar, but they don’t have to disrupt your financial plans. By noting the dates, using digital channels, and planning ahead, you’ll stay on top of your money all year round.