Public and private sector banks in multiple states across India will remain closed today in observance of Eid-e-Milad, a significant celebration honoring the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Also known as Muhammad’s Birthday, Nabi Day, or Mawlid, Eid-e-Milad is recognized as a public holiday in India and is celebrated with great joy by Muslims worldwide.
Main Points
Which States Will Have Bank Holidays?
Banks will be closed in the following states for Eid-e-Milad:
- Gujarat
- Mizoram
- Karnataka
- Tamil Nadu
- Uttarakhand
- Andhra Pradesh
- Telangana
- Manipur
- Jammu
- Kerala
- Uttar Pradesh
- New Delhi
- Chhattisgarh
- Jharkhand
However, it’s important to note that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Maharashtra government have shifted the Eid-e-Milad public holiday to September 18 in the state of Maharashtra. The previously announced holiday on September 16 has been canceled.
Online Banking Services Still Available
While bank branches will be closed, customers can still access online banking services to manage their accounts, transfer funds, and check balances from the comfort of their homes or mobile devices. ATMs will also remain accessible for cash withdrawals.
Upcoming Bank Holidays in September
In addition to the Eid-e-Milad holiday, banks in Sikkim will be closed on September 17 for Indra Jatra, and in Kerala, on September 18 for Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti.
The week following Eid-e-Milad also presents an opportunity for a long weekend in certain states:
- Kerala will observe Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi on September 21, followed by the nationwide Sunday holiday on September 22.
- In Haryana, September 23 marks Heroes’ Martyrdom Day, leading to another regional bank holiday.
Total Bank Holidays in September 2024
In total, banks across India will observe at least 14 holidays in September 2024, including second and fourth Saturdays, Sundays, and various religious and regional holidays. The RBI, in conjunction with state governments, publishes a list of bank holidays each year based on local and national events, as well as cultural and operational requirements.
While these holidays may interrupt some services, digital banking ensures that essential operations continue, reducing the impact on customers. Planning ahead can help individuals and businesses avoid any inconvenience caused by these scheduled bank holidays.