May 2026 includes a balanced mix of national and regional bank holidays. From Labour Day to Buddha Purnima, these holidays reflect India’s cultural diversity. Customers should stay informed using the Reserve Bank of India’s official holiday calendar and schedule offline banking accordingly while enjoying uninterrupted digital services.
Customers should plan important banking activities like branch visits, cheque deposits, or demand drafts in advance. However, online banking, mobile apps, UPI, and ATMs will operate as usual to ensure smooth digital transactions throughout the month.
List of Bank Holidays in India for May 2026
| Date | Day | Holiday | Applicable States / Regions |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 1, 2026 | Friday | Maharashtra Day / Labour Day | All States (National & Regional) |
| May 3, 2026 | Sunday | Weekly Holiday | Nationwide |
| May 8, 2026 | Friday | Buddha Purnima | All States (National Holiday) |
| May 9, 2026 | Saturday | Second Saturday Bank Holiday | All Banks (Nationwide) |
| May 10, 2026 | Sunday | Weekend Holiday | All Banks |
| May 17, 2026 | Sunday | Weekend Holiday | All Banks |
| May 23, 2026 | Saturday | Fourth Saturday Bank Holiday | All Banks (Nationwide) |
| May 24, 2026 | Sunday | Weekend Holiday | All Banks |
| May 25, 2026 | Monday | Jamai Sasthi / State Observances | West Bengal and Others |
| May 31, 2026 | Sunday | Weekly Holiday | Nationwide |
Highlights of Major Bank Holidays in May 2026
1. Maharashtra Day & Labour Day (May 1, 2026)
Celebrated across India as International Workers’ Day, it also marks the formation of the state of Maharashtra. Banks remain closed nationwide to honor workers and commemorate the day’s importance.
2. Buddha Purnima (May 8, 2026)
A significant day marking the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Lord Buddha. It is a public holiday in most Indian states and union territories.
3. Second and Fourth Saturday Closures (May 9 & May 23, 2026)
As per the RBI directive, all scheduled and private banks remain closed on the second and fourth Saturdays every month.
4. Jamai Sasthi (May 25, 2026)
Primarily celebrated in West Bengal, this festival strengthens the bond between sons-in-law and their in-laws. Select regional branches remain closed on this day.
5. Regular Sunday Closures
All banks across India remain closed every Sunday, though digital banking channels remain fully functional.
Note: Some regional holidays may vary depending on state government announcements. Always check your local bank branch notice or official RBI regional calendar for state-specific holidays.
