Indian Banks to Close for Dhanteras and Diwali Festivals

Banks across India are preparing to close on several days around Dhanteras and Diwali, prompting many customers to check official holiday schedules before visiting branches.

Dhanteras, which traditionally marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities, falls on November 6, 2026, and reports indicate that some bank branches will remain shut that day.

Questions have also arisen over whether banks will operate as usual on Saturday, November 7, just ahead of the main Diwali celebrations. Major lenders, including SBI, HDFC, and ICICI, are expected to adhere to the holiday calendar set by regulatory authorities.

Unlike many countries with a single national holiday schedule, bank closures in India are not uniform across the country. Each state maintains its own list of holidays, reflecting regional and cultural variations in how festivals such as Dhanteras and Diwali are observed.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues an annual calendar that details bank holidays on a state-by-state basis, combining national observances with region-specific festival dates.

This decentralised approach means that a bank branch in one state may be closed for Diwali-related festivities on a date when branches in another state remain open, depending on local customs and official declarations.

To avoid inconvenience, customers are being urged to consult the RBI's published calendar or verify directly with their branch before planning any in-person banking activities during the festive period.

Despite physical closures, digital banking channels, including mobile applications and internet banking platforms, are expected to remain fully functional, enabling customers to carry out essential transactions without needing to visit a branch.

The period around Diwali typically sees heightened banking activity, as households and businesses often increase cash withdrawals and transfers in preparation for festive spending.

While the exact list of closed dates varies by state, the overall pattern reflects India's broader approach to accommodating diverse regional festival calendars within a centrally coordinated banking system.