Bakrid Holiday Update: There is a big update for everyone. There is a lot of uncertainty among individuals about the bank holidays for Bakrid, or Eid al-Adha, in 2026. Are banks going to be closed today, Wednesday, May 27th, or Thursday, May 28th? This year’s dates are fluctuating due to moon sightings and various notifications from state governments. Let’s clarify when banks will be closed in your area and which services will still be available.
The central government has announced May 28 as a public holiday
The date for the Eid al-Adha (Bakrid) holiday has been adjusted by the central government. On May 22, the Ministry of Personnel released a statement indicating that all central administrative offices in Delhi will be closed on Thursday, May 28, 2026, instead of May 27, 2026. This means that central government employees will observe the Eid holiday on May 28.
Will banks be closed on May 27 or May 28?
Bank holidays for Bakrid are not consistent nationwide. They are primarily influenced by three factors: moon sighting, local government notifications, and regional customs. As a result, in some states, banks will close on May 27th, while in others, they will close on May 28th.
Banks are closed in Jammu and Kashmir today
As per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, banks will be closed in Jammu and Srinagar on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, due to Bakrid (Eid al-Adha). This means that commercial banks, cooperative banks, regional rural banks (RRBs), small finance banks (SFBs), and local area banks (LABs) will all be closed on this day.
The Kerala government has announced two consecutive public holidays for Bakrid. According to a notification from the General Administration Department issued on May 24, Bakrid will be celebrated in the state on May 28, so all government offices, educational institutions, and public sector undertakings will be closed on both May 27 and 28. This directive also applies to entities governed by the Negotiable Instruments Act.
If you need to send money urgently, don’t worry. RTGS and NEFT services are available 24×7. Starting December 14, 2020, this facility is available every day, around the clock, even on bank holidays.
Will online banking work on holidays?
Yes, online banking services operate seamlessly even on bank holidays. You can make UPI payments, make mobile banking/net banking payments, transfer money, apply for loans online, and request checkbooks conveniently and from the comfort of your home, all from your mobile phone.
Even if bank branches are closed, ATMs remain operational. You can withdraw and deposit cash as needed. Just make sure the ATM is refilled on time. It’s worth noting that local holidays also apply in different states. Therefore, for accurate Bank Holiday information, please check your state’s RBI calendar or the relevant bank’s website.
