Banks across India will remain closed on two days next week - Sunday, May 18, and Saturday, May 24. According to reports from The Economic Times, branches will be fully operational from Monday, May 19, to Friday, May 23. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has notified nine holidays for banks this month, including national and regional public holidays, all Sundays, and the second and fourth Saturdays of every month.
As reported by The Economic Times, banks are open on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of each month but shut on the second and fourth Saturdays as a rule. Saturday, May 24, falls on the fourth Saturday of May, which means branches across India will not operate. The RBI's holiday calendar includes two more bank holidays in May - May 27 (Wednesday) for Bakrid/Eid al-Adha and May 31 (Sunday), a regular weekend holiday.
According to The Economic Times, online banking and ATMs continue to operate during bank holidays, with UPI-based payments, NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS services remaining available for fund transfers. However, branch-dependent services are not available on holidays, including depositing cash or cheques at the counter, getting demand drafts issued, accessing bank lockers, or completing in-person KYC verification. Customers can still use mobile apps and internet banking for account statements and other digital services.
As noted by The Economic Times, bank holidays can vary from state to state depending on local festivals and regional observances. Customers are advised to check the RBI's official holiday list or contact their nearest branch to confirm closures in their area. The holiday schedule includes national and regional public holidays alongside the standard monthly closure pattern.
