Bank holiday today: Are banks closed on January 17 for Pongal? Check state-wise list
Bank holiday on January 17: On Saturdays, many bank customers often face confusion over whether branches are open or closed, as banks do not operate on all Saturdays each month. As per Reserve Bank of India (RBI) rules, banks remain closed on the second and fourth Saturdays, while they function on the first, third and fifth Saturdays, unless a state-specific holiday applies.
Are banks open today?
Banks are open today across most states, as January 17 falls on the third Saturday of the month. However, banks are closed in Tamil Nadu on account of Uzhavar Thirunal, a state-specific holiday.
Uzhavar Thirunal in Tamil Nadu
Uzhavar Thirunal, also known as Pongal or Makar Sankranti in other parts of India, is a major Tamil harvest festival celebrated in mid-January. The festival marks the end of winter and the beginning of the rice harvest season. It is observed as a public holiday in Tamil Nadu.
Bank holidays in January 2026 – check state-wise list
| Date | Occasion | States where banks are closed |
|---|---|---|
| January 17 | Uzhavar Thirunal | Tamil Nadu |
| January 23 | Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti / Saraswati Puja | Tripura, Odisha, West Bengal |
| January 26 | Republic Day | All states |
Customers are advised to check state-wise holidays before planning in-branch visits, especially during festive periods. It is important to note that digital banking services such as UPI, mobile banking, internet banking and ATMs remain operational even on bank holidays.
