On April 15, 2025, scheduled banks across India will observe a holiday in several states due to the celebration of significant regional festivals, including Bengali New Year's Day, Himachal Day, and Bohag Bihu. This closure will affect various banking services, but digital banking options will remain available to customers.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has categorized April 15 as a public holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act, which dictates the observance of bank holidays for both private and public sector banks. As a result, branches in certain cities will be closed, impacting services that require in-person visits.
In particular, banks will be closed in cities such as Agartala, Guwahati, Itanagar, Kolkata, and Shimla. However, banking services will continue in other major cities including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, and New Delhi, where branches will remain open. The RBI has designated a total of 11 special holidays for banks throughout April 2025, excluding weekends.
April 15 marks the celebration of Pohela Boisakh, also known as Bengali New Year, which is a time for reunion and celebration among Bengali communities worldwide. Traditionally, families come together dressed in colorful attire, sharing meals and celebrating the arrival of spring. As described in various sources, the festival not only signifies the start of a new year in the Bengali calendar but also reflects cultural pride and unity among the Bengali people.
Meanwhile, Himachal Day is observed in Himachal Pradesh, commemorating the state's establishment as a province of India. This day is significant for the residents, as it marks the beginning of their journey towards statehood, highlighting the region's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Bohag Bihu, celebrated in Assam and other northeastern states, also falls on April 15 this year. This festival marks the Assamese New Year and is closely associated with the harvest season. It is a time for festivities, including traditional music, dance, and feasting, which brings communities together in celebration.
Despite the bank closures, digital banking services such as net banking, mobile banking, and ATMs will remain operational, allowing customers to perform transactions online, pay bills, and manage their finances without needing to visit a physical branch. This continuity of digital services ensures that customers can still access essential banking functions during the holiday.
In addition to April 15, banks will also observe closures on April 14, 2025, due to Ambedkar Jayanti and various New Year celebrations in several states. Following that, banks will close again on April 18 for Good Friday, and subsequent holidays will occur throughout the month for other regional festivals, including Garia Puja and Lord Parshuram Jayanti.
As the festival season approaches, many people are reminded of the importance of planning ahead for their banking needs. Customers are encouraged to complete any necessary transactions before the holidays to avoid inconveniences.
In summary, while many regions will celebrate significant cultural events on April 15, the impact on banking services highlights the need for awareness of local holidays. Customers should take advantage of digital banking options to ensure their financial needs are met during these festive times.
