Makar Sankranti Celebrations: Banks Closed Today Across Multiple States
As India embraces the festive spirit of Makar Sankranti on January 14, 2025, banks across several states will remain closed in observance of this significant cultural event. Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, heralding the end of winter and the beginning of longer days. This auspicious day is celebrated with various customs and traditions across the country, reflecting India’s rich cultural diversity.
Bank Closures on Makar Sankranti
According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, banks will be closed in multiple cities due to Makar Sankranti celebrations. The affected cities include:
- Ahmedabad
- Bengaluru
- Bhubaneswar
- Chennai
- Gangtok
- Guwahati
- Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana)
- Itanagar
- Kanpur
- Lucknow
In these regions, banking services will not be available, which may affect regular transactions and account management. Customers are advised to plan their banking activities accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
A Festival of Unity and Diversity
Makar Sankranti is known by various names across different states, each with its unique customs. For instance:
- Punjab celebrates Lohri on January 13, where bonfires are lit, and people dance around them.
- In Gujarat, the festival is called Uttarayan, famous for its vibrant kite-flying competitions that fill the skies with colorful kites.
- Maharashtra marks Makar Sankranti with the exchange of sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery, known as Tilgul.
- In Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival where rice dishes are prepared as offerings to the Sun God.
This festival not only signifies a change in season but also brings communities together, fostering a spirit of gratitude and celebration.
Online Banking Services Remain Available
While physical bank branches will be closed, digital banking services such as net banking, mobile banking, and UPI will continue to operate seamlessly. This allows customers to conduct various transactions from the comfort of their homes, ensuring that essential banking services remain accessible even during the holiday