Eid-ul-Adha Holiday Confusion: May 27 or 28?

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakrid, is a significant Islamic festival observed on the 10th day of Dhu-al-Hijjah. This year, the festival is set to be celebrated on May 28, following Middle Eastern nations confirming the sighting of the crescent moon. The date depends on lunar observation, leading to some confusion regarding the public holiday dates in India.

Several Indian states have revised their public holiday schedules, with some initially planning for May 27 and others shifting to May 28. Notably, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal have moved their holidays to May 28, while Kerala has announced a two-day holiday on May 27 and 28. Jammu and Kashmir will also observe holidays on both these dates. Banks, under the Reserve Bank of India's guidance, will have staggered holidays, with some branches closed on May 27, others on May 28, and a few on both days.

Despite the physical closure of bank branches, customers can still utilize online banking facilities for essential services. This includes account management, fund transfers, and bill payments. ATMs will also remain operational. Eid-ul-Adha marks the final major festival in May for which banks observe a public holiday.