Saturday bank holiday queries surfaced nationwide on January 17, 2026, as customers sought clarity on whether banks were open or closed across states. The Reserve Bank of India holiday framework places most scheduled banks in operation on the third Saturday of each month, making January 17 a working day for banking activities in most regions.
However, banking services remained unavailable in parts of Tamil Nadu due to Uzhavar Thirunal, a state-specific public holiday observed across government and financial institutions. The divergence once again highlighted how national banking rules intersect with regional calendars, often creating uncertainty for customers planning branch visits.
As online searches for “are banks open or closed today” and “January 17 bank holiday” spiked, banks and regulators pointed to the RBI’s monthly holiday list as the final authority on branch operations. Digital banking channels continued to function normally across the country.
Saturday bank holiday rule under RBI guidelines
Under RBI norms, all scheduled and non-scheduled banks remain closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month. Branches operate on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays, unless a state-level holiday overrides the general rule.
January 17, 2026, falls on the third Saturday, placing it outside the standard weekend closure schedule.
Tamil Nadu banks closed for Uzhavar Thirunal
Despite the nationwide working status, banks in Tamil Nadu observed a holiday due to Uzhavar Thirunal, a harvest festival widely celebrated across the state. The holiday is recognised in the RBI’s state-wise holiday calendar, resulting in a full-day closure of banking services in Chennai and other districts.
Uzhavar Thirunal forms part of the broader Pongal festival cycle and marks the agricultural community’s thanksgiving period at the peak of the harvest season.
Upcoming bank holidays later in January 2026
The RBI calendar lists several additional bank holidays in January, varying by state:
- January 23, 2026: Banks closed in Tripura, Odisha and West Bengal for occasions including Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, Saraswati Puja and Basanta Panchami
- January 26, 2026: Nationwide bank holiday on account of Republic Day
Customers are advised to check state-wise notifications before planning branch visits toward the end of the month.
With state-level observances continuing to influence branch operations, banking officials reiterate that customers should rely on the RBI’s official holiday list for accurate information. Digital services, including UPI, net banking and mobile banking platforms, are expected to remain uninterrupted even on notified bank holidays.
Get the latest Business, Economy, and Personal Finance news, updates, covering markets, policies, investments, and financial tips, market trends, policy changes, and money-saving insights and decisions with in-depth analysis, expert insights, and real-time updates that matter to your money at Global India Broadcast News
