Diwali 2024 Bank Holiday: Find Out When Banks Will Be Closed

As Diwali 2024 approaches, India is set to embrace the vibrant festivities that define one of its most cherished festivals. This festival, known for its lights, celebrations, and grand gatherings, also brings a series of holidays affecting various sectors, including banks. For many nationwide, this time offers an extended break, with bank closures across multiple states depending on local customs and regional observances.

This year, the primary Diwali holiday is expected to fall on October 31, with additional closures for associated celebrations like Dhanteras and Govardhan Puja. Here’s a detailed list of Diwali 2024 bank holidays to help you plan your finances and banking needs during this festive period.

Diwali Bank Holiday 2024: National Overview

Below is a general overview of the major days when banks will remain closed across different states in India:

• October 30, 2024 (Wednesday) – Naraka Chaturdashi / Chhoti Diwali
• October 31, 2024 (Thursday) – Diwali (Deepavali)
• November 2, 2024 (Saturday) – Govardhan Puja
• November 3, 2024 (Sunday) – Bhai Dooj

Diwali 2024 Bank Holidays: City-wise Schedule

Diwali bank holidays vary by region. Here’s a breakdown of holiday schedules based on major cities and states:

• October 31: Banks in Assam, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, among others, will observe a holiday for Diwali / Deepawali / Naraka Chaturdashi / Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Birthday / Kali Puja.
• November 1: Banks in Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Sikkim, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Uttarakhand will remain closed for Diwali / Kut Festival / Kannada Rajyotsava.
• November 2: Banks in Rajasthan, Sikkim, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh will observe holidays for Laxmi Puja / Diwali / Govardhan Puja.
• November 3: Banks nationwide will be closed as it is a Sunday. This extends the holiday period for most states.

Diwali 2024 Bank Holiday: ATM and Online Transactions

During Diwali holidays, cash requirements might rise, and customers may face limited access to in-branch services. However, Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) and online transactions remain operational, ensuring customers can still conduct financial activities as needed. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) schedules RTGS holidays, yet digital banking services remain fully accessible during public holidays for both private and public sector banks.

Most bank ATMs are expected to be replenished regularly during this period to meet demand. Additionally, online banking apps and websites will function normally, allowing customers access to fund transfers, balance checks, and other essential transactions.

Tips for Managing Finances During the Diwali Bank Holidays

• Plan Withdrawals in Advance: Anticipate higher cash demands and long ATM lines by withdrawing needed amounts ahead of time.
• Use Digital Payments: With digital banking and UPI payments available, consider cashless transactions wherever possible.
• Verify Specific Dates: Since holidays may vary by state, verify the holiday schedule for your bank branch.

With this information, you can celebrate Diwali without any banking interruptions, ensuring a smooth, joyful, and hassle-free festival season.

Also Read: When is Diwali 2024: Date, timings, significance, and more