Bank Holiday Today: Pongal Festivities Close Banks Across Multiple States
Today, January 15, 2026, marks a significant bank holiday in India as the country celebrates Pongal, one of its most important harvest festivals. This festive occasion brings grandeur to several states, but it also creates confusion for many about whether banks will open or close. According to the Reserve Bank of India's official holiday calendar, numerous public and private sector banks will indeed remain shut today.
Festivals Driving Bank Closures
Pongal is not the only reason for today's bank holiday. The country also observes Uttarayana Punyakala and Makara Sankranti, leading to closures in specific states. Additionally, elections for Municipal Corporations in Maharashtra have prompted a bank holiday in Mumbai and the rest of the state today.
Bank holidays in India primarily depend on the location of bank branches within states. The RBI classifies these holidays under the Negotiable Instruments Act, noting their regional nature. Today, banks will close in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Telangana.
Upcoming Bank Holidays to Note
Looking ahead, several more bank holidays are scheduled:
- January 16: Banks in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh will close for Thiruvalluvar Day and Kanuma.
- January 17: Banks in Tamil Nadu will remain shut for Uzhavar Thirunal, part of the Pongal celebrations.
- January 23: A bank holiday in West Bengal and Odisha for Saraswati Puja and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's birth anniversary.
- January 26: All banks across India will close for Republic Day, a national holiday.
Four Consecutive Bank Holidays in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu experiences a unique situation with four straight bank holidays starting today. Banks will close on January 15 for Pongal, January 16 for Thiruvalluvar Day, and January 17 for Uzhavar Thirunal. January 18, a Sunday, adds to this closure period. However, it is crucial to remember that only physical bank branches will shut down during these holidays.
Customers can still access internet banking, ATMs, UPI services, and other digital banking options without interruption. This ensures that essential financial transactions continue smoothly despite the branch closures.
Bank holidays vary significantly by state, influenced by local festivals, events, and regional observances. Staying informed about the RBI's holiday calendar helps plan financial activities effectively during these periods.
