Bakrid holiday 2026: Are banks closed on May 27 or May 28? Check state-wise list

As Bakrid approaches, many customers are confused about whether banks will remain closed on May 27 or May 28 in 2026. The confusion mainly emerged because moon sighting and regional announcements led to holiday revisions in several states.

Here is everything you need to know about the Bakrid bank holiday schedule, RBI guidelines and online banking services.

Also read: Why are Bakrid and Eid-al-Fitr celebrated differently? Key details explained

ARE BANKS CLOSED?

Bank holidays for Bakrid may differ across states depending on:

• moon sighting

• local government notifications

• regional observance dates

• In some states, banks may remain closed on May 27, while others may observe the holiday on May 28.

Customers are advised to check:

• state-wise RBI holiday lists

• local bank notifications

• official state announcements

• before planning branch visits.

WHICH STATES WILL OBSERVE BAKRID BANK HOLIDAY ON MAY 28?

Several states are likely to observe the Bakrid holiday on May 28 based on local moon sighting announcements and administrative decisions.

The holiday schedule may vary in:

• Delhi

• Uttar Pradesh

• Maharashtra

• West Bengal

• Telangana

• Karnataka

• Kerala

Customers should confirm with their local bank branch for exact timings and closures.

WHY WERE BAKRID HOLIDAY DATES REVISED IN SOME STATES?

The date of Bakrid depends on the Islamic lunar calendar and moon sighting.

Since moon sightings may differ across regions:

• some states revise holiday dates

• government offices update schedules later

• banking calendars may get modified accordingly

• This often leads to confusion among customers regarding branch operations.

WHAT DOES THE RBI HOLIDAY CALENDAR SAY ABOUT EID-UZ-ZUHA?

Reserve Bank of India releases a state-wise bank holiday calendar every year.

According to RBI rules:

• bank holidays are not always uniform nationwide

• regional festivals can have different closure dates

• holiday notifications may vary by state and banking zone

• Customers can check RBI’s official holiday list for updated information.

WILL ONLINE BANKING SERVICES WORK DURING THE HOLIDAY?

Yes, most digital banking services usually continue working during bank holidays.

Services that generally remain available include:

• UPI payments

• internet banking

• mobile banking apps

• ATM withdrawals

• card transactions

However, some services such as:

• cheque clearance

• branch-related work

• RTGS settlement timings

• may experience delays.

WHAT SERVICES MAY BE AFFECTED DURING THE HOLIDAY?

Customers visiting physical bank branches may face:

• branch closures

• delayed cash deposits

• postponed cheque processing

• limited customer support

It is recommended to complete urgent banking tasks in advance.

WHY BANK HOLIDAY CONFUSION HAPPENS EVERY YEAR

Holiday confusion during Islamic festivals usually happens because:

• moon sightings differ regionally

• state governments issue separate notifications

• banking schedules vary across zones

This is common during both:

Bakrid

Eid-al-Fitr

TIPS FOR CUSTOMERS DURING BANK HOLIDAYS

To avoid inconvenience:

• complete branch work early

• keep digital payment apps ready

• withdraw emergency cash in advance

• monitor official bank announcements

Bakrid bank holiday dates in 2026 may vary between May 27 and May 28 depending on state-wise moon sightings and official notifications. While online banking services are expected to function normally, physical bank branches may remain closed in several regions.

Customers should check local bank alerts and RBI holiday schedules before visiting branches during the festival period.