March 2025 will see a multitude of public holidays and cultural festivities across India, allowing citizens to observe traditions and celebrate the country's rich diversity. Jam-packed with colorful festivals, the month features important holidays ranging from national events to local observances, reflecting the vibrant cultural fabric of India.
The holiday month kicks off with Panchayati Raj Diwas on March 5, 2025, celebrated mainly in the state of Odisha. This day commemorates the establishment of the Panchayati Raj system and emphasizes local governance. Just two days later, on March 7, Sikkim will observe Losar, the Tibetan New Year, which signifies the arrival of spring and is marked with various traditional customs.
Of course, the most anticipated festival of March is Holi, the festival of colors, which will take place on March 14, 2025. Officially deemed a restricted holiday, Holi is celebrated nationwide, with people adorning themselves and their surroundings with vibrant hues. On the same day, other significant observances emerge: Yaosang, celebrated predominantly in Manipur, marks the onset of Holi festivities, and Doljatra, held in West Bengal, explores devotion to Lord Krishna.
Following this, March 15 will witness the second day of Yaosang celebrated in Bihar, continuing the festive spirit of locals. Just one week later, the state of Haryana honors the patriotic spirit on March 23 during Bhagat Singh Martyrdom Day, paying tribute to the legendary freedom fighter who played pivotal roles during India's struggle for independence.
Later, on March 28, Jammu and Kashmir will observe Shab-i-Qadr and Jamat-ul-Wida. These two events are considered of utmost importance within the Islamic calendar, serving as occasions for reflection and prayer. Conclusively, March ends on high notes with celebrations marking regional New Years. On March 30, Ugadi is celebrated as the Telugu New Year across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, and it coincides with Gudi Padwa, celebrated with much fervor in Maharashtra. Tamil Nadu joins this festive observance also recognizing the Telugu New Year.
Wrapping up the month, March 31 marks Id-ul-Fitr, culminating the month-long observance of Ramadan. This gazetted holiday is anticipated nationwide, featuring prayers and jubilations among families, denoting unity and gratitude.
Bank operations throughout March will reflect these holidays, as the Indian Reserve Bank has designated numerous days for closures. According to the official calendar, March 2025 will see banks shut for 14 days due to weekly holidays and public observances. Sundays are followed by scheduled closures on the second and fourth Saturdays, switching gears depending on regional festivals, ensuring bank operations adapt to public needs.
The complete holiday calendar for March 2025 demonstrates more than just days off work; it enables opportunities for individuals to engage with their cultural backgrounds, learn about traditions, and celebrate shared joys as part of their communities. To summarize, here is the list of bank holidays for March 2025:
- March 5, Wednesday: Panchayati Raj Diwas (Odisha)
- March 7, Friday: Losar (Sikkim)
- March 14, Friday: Holi (Restricted Holiday)
- March 14, Friday: Yaosang (Manipur)
- March 14, Friday: Doljatra (West Bengal)
- March 15, Saturday: Yaosang (Second Day, Bihar)
- March 23, Sunday: Bhagat Singh Martyrdom Day (Haryana)
- March 28, Friday: Shab-i-Qadr (Jammu and Kashmir)
- March 28, Friday: Jamat-ul-Wida (Jammu and Kashmir)
- March 30, Sunday: Ugadi (Restricted Holiday)
- March 30, Sunday: Telugu New Year (Tamil Nadu)
- March 30, Sunday: Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra)
- March 31, Monday: Id-ul-Fitr (Gazetted Holiday)
These holidays reflect just how interconnected the cultural practices are across regions of India, making March 2025 not just another month, but a vibrant celebration of life, faith, and unity.