As the festival of lights illuminates homes across India, many residents are wondering about banking services during the festive period. With Diwali falling on October 20, 2025, here's everything you need to know about bank operations and holiday schedules.
Diwali Banking Schedule: What You Need to Know
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has declared October 20, 2025, as a holiday for banks in most states and union territories under the Negotiable Instruments Act. However, banking operations vary significantly across different regions, making it crucial to check your local schedule.
Cities Where Banks Will Remain Closed
Financial institutions will observe a complete holiday in these major metropolitan areas:
- Mumbai: All banks closed for Diwali celebrations
- New Delhi: Complete banking holiday observed
- Kolkata: Banks shut for Lakshmi Puja
- Chennai: Financial institutions remain closed
- Bengaluru: No banking services available
- Hyderabad: Full holiday for Diwali festivities
- Ahmedabad: Banks closed for the festival
- Pune: No banking operations
- Jaipur: Complete holiday observed
- Lucknow: Banks shut for celebrations
Regions With Partial Banking Services
While most of India celebrates Diwali on October 20, some regions observe the festival on different dates. In these areas, banks might operate with limited services or remain open with regular hours. It's advisable to contact your local branch for specific timing details.
Planning Your Financial Activities
For urgent banking needs during the holiday period, consider these alternatives:
- Digital Banking: Internet banking and mobile apps remain operational 24/7
- ATM Services: Cash withdrawal facilities available at most locations
- Online Transactions: Fund transfers and bill payments can be processed digitally
- Planning Ahead: Complete essential banking tasks before the holiday
The RBI's holiday schedule ensures that banking operations resume normally from October 21, 2025, across all locations. Customers are encouraged to use digital banking platforms for seamless financial transactions during the festive season.
Remember to verify your local bank's specific schedule, as some private banks might have different operating policies during festival periods. Wishing everyone a prosperous and joyful Diwali celebration!
