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The upcoming Chhath Puja festival, a significant religious observance in India, will bring about bank holidays in various states. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released a state-wise list of holidays, impacting banking operations in regions like Bihar, Jharkhand, Delhi, and West Bengal. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the holiday schedule and offers insights into the festival's significance and impact on banking services.
The festival of Chhath Puja, a four-day event dedicated to worshipping the Sun God, is observed with a series of rituals that include fasting, offering prayers to the rising and setting sun, taking sacred baths, and meditation. It is a time of great devotion and spiritual practice for Hindus across the country, particularly in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, where it holds immense cultural importance.
The bank holidays announced for Chhath Puja align with the festival's key days, impacting banking services across these regions. On November 7, banks in Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal will remain closed due to the Chhath Puja Evening Arghya ritual. The following day, November 8, banks in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Meghalaya will also be closed to accommodate the Wangala Festival and Chhath Puja Morning Arghya.
The holiday schedule also includes the regular second Saturday and Sunday holidays, meaning banks across India will remain closed on November 9 and 10, respectively. It is advisable for customers to plan their banking activities accordingly, ensuring they complete essential transactions before the holiday period commences. This includes utilizing digital banking services such as online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs, which remain available during bank holidays unless scheduled maintenance restricts their use.
While the festival brings about disruption in traditional banking services, it provides a chance for individuals to participate in the religious festivities and reconnect with their cultural heritage. As the nation prepares for this significant celebration, it is essential to stay informed about the bank holiday schedule and take necessary precautions to avoid any inconvenience.
Source: Chhath Puja 2024 Bank Holiday: Are Banks Closed On November 7, 8, Check Full State-wise List