As April 2025 unfolds, banking customers across India face a challenging month with numerous holidays impacting banking operations. According to the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) holiday list, banks may remain closed for about five to six days in the first half of April, including weekends and regional festivals. This situation calls for careful planning for anyone needing to conduct banking transactions.
April is a month filled with significant holidays that vary by state, and customers are advised to be aware of these closures to avoid inconveniences. The RBI has issued a detailed list of bank holidays for the month, which includes a variety of celebrations and observances.
The first holiday falls on April 1, 2025 (Tuesday), when banks will close for the annual account closing, a nationwide observance. Additionally, in Jharkhand, the Sarhul festival, which marks the beginning of the new year for many tribal communities, will also see banks closed.
Following this, on April 5 (Saturday), banks in Telangana will observe Babu Jagjivan Ram Jayanti, honoring the prominent Dalit leader and freedom fighter. This holiday is significant in the region, reflecting the cultural and historical importance of the figure.
April 10 (Thursday) brings Mahavir Jayanti, celebrated in several states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Telangana. This day commemorates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the founder of Jainism, and is a public holiday in these states.
On April 14 (Monday), a significant number of states will observe Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Jayanti, along with festivals like Vishu, Bihu, and the Tamil New Year. However, banks will remain open in Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh, Chandigarh, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, New Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya, and Himachal Pradesh.
The following day, April 15 (Tuesday), marks the Bengali New Year, Himachal Day, and Bohag Bihu, with banks closed in Assam, West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, as these regions celebrate their respective new year festivities.
April 18 (Friday) is another holiday for Good Friday, although banks in Tripura, Assam, Rajasthan, Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Srinagar will remain open. This holiday holds significant meaning for the Christian community, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
As the month progresses, April 21 (Monday) will see banks in Tripura closed for Garia Puja, an important tribal festival. Then, on April 29 (Tuesday), banks in Himachal Pradesh will close for Bhagwan Shree Parshuram Jayanti, celebrating the birth of the revered figure in Hindu mythology.
Finally, on April 30 (Wednesday), Karnataka will observe Basava Jayanti and Akshaya Tritiya, with banks closed to honor the founder of the Lingayat sect and to celebrate this auspicious day known for new beginnings.
Despite these closures, digital banking services will remain operational 24/7. Customers can continue to use platforms like UPI, IMPS, net banking, and mobile banking for transactions. However, traditional banking services such as cheque clearing, drafts, and cash transactions will not be available during the holidays, emphasizing the need for customers to plan their banking activities accordingly.
In a related incident, banks in Panjwara and surrounding areas reopened on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, after a three-day closure. The closure was due to the second Saturday of the month on April 12, followed by a Sunday holiday on April 13, and then Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14. This led to a significant influx of customers eager to resume their banking activities after the long weekend.
The rush at the bank on reopening day illustrates the impact of consecutive holidays on banking services, with many customers needing to complete essential transactions that had been delayed. The situation highlights the importance of being aware of banking schedules, especially during months filled with multiple holidays.
As April continues, customers are urged to keep track of the holiday schedule to avoid any disruptions in their banking needs. Planning ahead can help mitigate the inconvenience caused by these closures, ensuring that essential transactions are completed in a timely manner.
In summary, April 2025 presents several challenges for banking customers across India due to a series of holidays. With banks closed for significant portions of the month, it is crucial for customers to stay informed and plan their banking activities accordingly. While digital services remain available, the physical branches will be closed on numerous occasions, affecting traditional banking transactions.
