Bank Holiday Confusion: Lohri Open, Makar Sankranti Closures in Select States

Bank Holiday Confusion Grips Customers During Festive Season

Bank customers across India are experiencing widespread confusion about January bank holidays. This confusion centers particularly around festivals like Lohri and Makar Sankranti. Many people remain unsure whether banks will close today or tomorrow for these celebrations.

Understanding the RBI Holiday Calendar

The Reserve Bank of India publishes a holiday calendar each year. This calendar shows that bank holidays vary significantly from state to state. Regional festivals and local observances determine these closures. This state-specific approach often creates uncertainty for customers. People planning branch visits during festival periods frequently find themselves confused.

Are Banks Closed Today for Lohri?

No, banks are not closed today for Lohri. Banks remain open on Tuesday across the entire country. Lohri is widely celebrated in northern India. However, it is not a notified bank holiday on the RBI calendar.

Are Banks Closed Tomorrow for Makar Sankranti?

Banks will indeed close in select states on Wednesday. This closure is for Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu celebrations. The affected states include:

Gujarat
Odisha
Assam
Arunachal Pradesh

Bank Holidays on January 15

Banks will shut down in several southern and eastern states on Thursday. This closure is for Uttarayana Punyakala, Pongal, and Maghe or Makara Sankranti. The states affected include:

Karnataka
Tamil Nadu
Sikkim
Andhra Pradesh
Telangana

State-Wise Bank Holidays from January 14

Here is a detailed breakdown of upcoming bank holidays:

January 14 - Makar Sankranti / Magh Bihu
States where banks close: Gujarat, Odisha, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh
January 15 - Pongal / Uttarayana Punyakala / Maghe Sankranti
States where banks close: Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Maharashtra
January 16 - Thiruvalluvar Day
States where banks close: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh
January 17 - Uzhavar Thirunal
States where banks close: Tamil Nadu
January 23 - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti / Saraswati Puja
States where banks close: Tripura, Odisha, West Bengal
January 26 - Republic Day
States where banks close: All states and bank branches nationwide

Planning Your Banking During Festivals

Customers planning in-branch banking transactions during this festive period should take note. It is advisable to complete essential work well in advance. This proactive approach helps avoid disruption caused by state-specific bank closures.

Remember, even when physical branches shut down, digital banking services remain fully operational. These services include: