Buddha Purnima 2024: What’s closed and open today. Check here.

As Buddha Purnima is a gazetted holiday in India, many public services will be closed. 

23 May 2024

By Harjeet Kaur Chabra

Buddha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti or Vesak, celebrates the birth of Lord Gautam Buddha. Born around 563 BC in Lumbini, now in Nepal, Buddha was originally Prince Siddhartha Gautam. Buddhists around the world celebrate this important day with enthusiasm. This year, Buddha Purnima falls on 23rd May, a Thursday.

As Buddha Purnima is a gazetted holiday in India, many public services will be closed. All government offices, schools, post offices and banks will not be open today. This closure includes all states where Buddha Purnima is officially recognised as a holiday.

What’s Closed?

• Government Offices: All government offices are closed today due to the gazetted holiday status of Buddha Purnima.
• Schools: Schools across the states observing the holiday are closed.
• Post Offices: Post offices, being part of the government services, are also closed.
• Banks: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has designated today as a bank holiday, so all banks will remain closed. This schedule is coordinated with the state and national holidays, and the RBI makes this information available through official notifications and its website.

However, Buddha Purnima might not be a holiday in all parts of India. In some states, regular activities may continue, so it’s a good idea to check with local branches if you need to visit a bank or government office.

What’s Open?

• Markets: The stock markets, including the BSE and NSE, are open for trading today. After a brief closure for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections on 20th May, the markets are operating normally on Buddha Purnima.

Enjoy the festivities of Buddha Purnima, whether by participating in religious activities or simply appreciating the day off!