Banks and Stock Markets Closed Across India for Balipratipada and Vikram Samvant New Year

Nationwide Financial Closures for Festive Observance

On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, financial institutions across India, including all public and private sector banks, along with the country's leading stock exchanges, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE), will remain closed. The closure is in observance of Balipratipada, a significant Hindu festival also recognized as Bali Pratipada or Vikram Samvant New Year Day in various parts of the nation.

The Cultural and Religious Significance of Balipratipada

Balipratipada is the fourth day of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights . It commemorates the notional return of the benevolent daitya-king Bali (Mahabali) to Earth, a boon granted to him by Lord Vishnu's Vamana avatar . The festival is celebrated with devotion and joy, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat . In these regions, Balipratipada also marks the traditional New Year Day according to the Vikram Samvat calendar, often referred to as Bestu Varas in Gujarat . The day symbolizes humility, generosity, and devotion, and is often celebrated with rituals, rangoli, feasts, and family gatherings . It coincides with Govardhan Puja in some areas, dedicated to Lord Krishna and Mount Govardhan .

Bank and Stock Market Holiday Details

The closure of banks on October 22, 2025, is an official holiday declared by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), acknowledging Balipratipada and other associated observances like Govardhan Puja and Vikram Samvant New Year Day . Banks in several states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh, are specifically listed as observing this holiday . While the stock markets (BSE and NSE) will also be closed on this day , it is distinct from the Diwali Laxmi Pujan on October 21, 2025, which typically features a special 'Muhurat Trading' session .

Impact on Financial Transactions

During this holiday, in-person banking services will be unavailable. However, customers can continue to utilize various digital banking channels, including online banking, mobile applications, and ATMs, for essential transactions . Regular banking and trading operations are expected to resume on Thursday, October 23, 2025 . Customers are advised to plan their financial activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.