Good Friday 2025 Bank Holiday in India: What’s the Status on April 18?
Good Friday, observed on April 18 in 2025, is one of the most solemn and significant days in the Christian calendar. It marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is a time of reflection, mourning, and prayer for Christians across the world. In India, Good Friday is also recognized as a public holiday in many states—especially those with significant Christian populations.
So, what does this mean for banking operations on April 18, 2025?
Will Banks Be Closed on Good Friday?
City-Wise Bank Holiday Status
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, banks will remain closed in most parts of India on April 18, 2025 in observance of Good Friday. This includes both public sector and private sector banks. However, the holiday is not uniform across the country.
Banks Likely to Be Closed in These Cities:
Mumbai
Delhi
Bengaluru
Chennai
Kolkata
Hyderabad
Kochi
Thiruvananthapuram
Shillong
Panaji
Imphal
Aizawl
These cities typically observe Good Friday as a public holiday. In such regions, both public and private banks, including branches of SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis Bank, and others, will remain closed for the day.
Digital Banking Still Operational
While physical bank branches will be closed in several states, online banking services, ATMs, mobile apps, and net banking portals will remain functional. Customers can still perform essential transactions like fund transfers, bill payments, and balance checks without disruption.
Tip for Customers:
If you have important banking tasks that require in-branch visits—such as submitting KYC documents, collecting debit cards, or making cash deposits—plan them before or after April 18.
What This Holiday Means to Many
Good Friday is more than just a day off—it’s a time for personal reflection, family bonding, and spiritual observance. For bank employees, it is also a brief yet important respite.
“I use the Good Friday holiday to visit my hometown church and be with family. It’s a meaningful day, both personally and spiritually,” says Joel Fernandes, a senior manager at a private bank in Goa.
Impact on Banking Customers
For most customers, the closure of physical branches for one day may not cause major inconvenience, especially with the availability of 24/7 digital banking. However, some transactions—like large cash withdrawals or government documentation—still require physical presence.
Here’s how you can stay prepared:
Use UPI and net banking for quick payments.
Withdraw cash in advance if needed.
Schedule any branch visits on April 17 or 19.
Keep bank helpline numbers handy for urgent inquiries.
Is Good Friday a Uniform Holiday in India?
India follows a system where bank holidays vary by state based on local festivals, religious observances, and cultural significance. While Good Friday is a national holiday in many states, others may have different priorities based on regional faith demographics.
This variation is reflected in the RBI’s annual holiday list under three categories:
Holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act
Holiday under Negotiable Instruments Act and Real-Time Gross Settlement Holiday
Banks’ Closing of Accounts
Good Friday usually falls under Category 1, leading to closures in Christian-dominated or cosmopolitan cities.
