Indian stock markets on Thursday closed lower for the sixth consecutive week as escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, coupled with sharp currency fluctuations, kept investors cautious.
The benchmark Sensex ended at 73,319.55, down 263.67 points or 0.35 per cent, while Nifty 50 settled at 22,713.10, declining 106.50 points or 0.46 per cent week-on-week during a shortened four-day trading week.
Early in the session, both benchmarks fell sharply after US President Donald Trump hinted at potential military strikes on Iran within the next two to three weeks, creating uncertainty over diplomatic resolutions.
Sensex dropped over 1,500 points, and Nifty 50 lost more than 500 points, before partially recovering by the close.
HDFC Life Insurance, Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, NTPC, and Cipla were among the top losers. In broader markets, BSE Midcap 150 fell 0.6 per cent, while BSE Smallcap 250 rose 0.8 per cent.
Sectorally, realty, healthcare, and banking led gains, climbing roughly 3 per cent, 2.7 per cent, and 1 per cent, respectively, whereas metal, power, and consumer durables dropped more than 2 per cent each.
Analysts said Indian equities are likely to remain volatile, with sentiment tied to developments in West Asia.
Any easing in tensions could lower crude prices and stabilise the currency, while further escalation may sustain risk aversion and pressure foreign flows. Brent crude remains near $107 per barrel.
Markets are expected to track upcoming events, including the RBI monetary policy committee's decision, US Federal Open Market Committee minutes on April 8, and the start of Q4 FY26 earnings season.
Stock exchanges will remain closed on Friday for Good Friday.