Banking operations in parts of India will see a regional pause today, Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has declared a bank holiday in Goa to observe the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, a significant annual event in the state.
Why Are Banks Closed in Goa Today?
The holiday marks the death anniversary of the 16th-century missionary, St. Francis Xavier, the founder of the Society of Jesus. This day is commemorated every year on December 3 in Goa. As per the official RBI 2025 holiday calendar, this observance is listed under the Negotiable Instruments Act, leading to the closure of bank branches in the affected region.
City-Wise Bank Operational Status for December 3
While the holiday is specific to Goa, banks across the rest of the country will function as usual. According to the RBI's list, only banks in Panaji, Goa, will remain closed on this Wednesday. A comprehensive check reveals that branches in all other major Indian cities will be open for business.
The operational status for key cities is as follows:
- Closed: Panaji
- Open: New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Chandigarh, Lucknow, and all other major cities not in Goa.
Essential Banking Services Remain Accessible
It is crucial for customers to note that the physical closure of branches does not mean a complete halt to financial services. The RBI ensures that essential digital and self-service banking platforms continue to operate without interruption.
Customers can seamlessly avail the following services:
- Online and mobile banking for fund transfers, balance inquiries, and bill payments.
- NEFT and RTGS services, subject to their standard operational windows.
- Cash withdrawals and transactions via ATMs.
- Online requests for services like cheque book issuance, demand drafts, and account-related queries.
This December, the RBI calendar schedules a total of 18 official bank holidays, including the mandatory weekly offs on the second and fourth Saturdays and all Sundays. Banking customers, especially in Goa, are advised to plan their in-branch visits accordingly and leverage digital channels for uninterrupted financial management on this regional holiday.
