Pohela Boishakh 2025 holiday: Are banks, schools, and offices open or closed in your city today on Bengali New Year?

Pohela Boishakh 2025 holiday: Pohela Boishakh, also known as the Bengali New Year, is one of the most important festivals in West Bengal and Bangladesh. This day marks the beginning of the new year as per the Bengali calendar. People celebrate with great enthusiasm, colourful clothes, traditional food, and cultural programmes.

Let＊s take a look at whether banks, schools, and government offices will be open or closed on Pohela Boishakh 2025, and what to expect on this special day.

When is Pohela Boishakh 2025?

In 2025, Pohela Boishakh will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 15, according to the Drik Panchang. The Sankranti moment, which marks the transition, will occur at 3:30 AM on Monday, April 14.

Although Bangladesh has been celebrating Pohela Boishakh on April 14 since 1987, in India, the date may vary slightly between April 14 and 15, depending on regional calendars.

Are Schools Closed on Pohela Boishakh 2025?

Yes, schools and colleges in West Bengal and some nearby regions will remain shut on Tuesday, April 15, in celebration of the Bengali New Year. This day is observed as a public school holiday, allowing students and teachers to take part in cultural festivities and family gatherings.

Are Government Offices Open on Bengali New Year?

No, most government offices in West Bengal will remain closed on April 15 for Pohela Boishakh. It is recognised as an official public holiday, and state employees usually get the day off to enjoy the Bengali New Year celebrations.

Will Banks Be Open on Pohela Boishakh 2025?

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday list, banks will remain closed on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, in several cities, including:

• Kolkata
• Guwahati
• Agartala
• Itanagar
• Shimla

The reason is not just Pohela Boishakh, but also Bohag Bihu and Himachal Day, depending on the region. Hence, it is considered a bank holiday in these locations. People are advised to complete important banking tasks in advance. However, online services such as mobile and net banking will remain available as usual.

Are Shops and Markets Open on Pohela Boishakh?

Yes, most shops and markets in West Bengal are expected to stay open on April 15. In fact, this day is considered lucky for businesses. Many merchants start a fresh financial year by holding a special ritual called Halkhata, where new account books are opened with prayers for prosperity. So, even though it＊s a day of celebration, business activities carry on in full swing.

Upcoming Bank Holidays in April 2025 (State-wise List)

If you＊re planning your month, here are some upcoming bank holidays after Pohela Boishakh:

• April 16 (Wednesday) 每 Banks closed in Assam for Bohag Bihu
• April 18 (Friday) 每 Good Friday: Banks closed in Tripura, Assam, Rajasthan, Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Srinagar
• April 20 (Sunday) 每 Regular weekend holiday
• April 21 (Monday) 每 Garia Puja: Banks closed in Tripura
• April 26 (Saturday) 每 Fourth Saturday: All banks across India will be closed
• April 29 (Tuesday) 每 Parshuram Jayanti: Banks closed in Himachal Pradesh
• April 30 (Wednesday) 每 Basava Jayanti and Akshaya Tritiya: Banks closed in Karnataka

What is Pohela Boishakh, and why is it celebrated?

Pohela Boishakh literally means the "first day of Boishakh"〞the first month in the Bengali calendar. The Bengali era or Bangabda began in 594 CE, although some historians believe it was formally introduced during the reign of King Shashanka. However, it was Emperor Akbar who shaped the modern form of this calendar in the Mughal period.

Akbar＊s calendar, known as the Fasholi Shan or "harvest calendar", was a blend of the Islamic Hijri calendar and the Hindu solar calendar, adjusted to suit agricultural cycles.

Is Pohela Boishakh a Holiday in 2025?

Yes, Pohela Boishakh 2025 is a holiday in West Bengal and some other parts of India. Schools, government offices, and banks will be closed in many cities. However, shops and businesses are mostly open and actively take part in celebrating the Bengali New Year with rituals like Halkhata.

If you're planning to visit any bank or office, it＊s best to check local listings or call in advance to avoid inconvenience.

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