Bank Holiday Tomorrow: Why Are Banks Closed On July 16? Check RBI Calendar HERE

Customers in Uttarakhand will not be able to access in-branch services such as cheque deposits, cash withdrawals, or demand draft issuance during the one-day closure

Despite the physical closure of bank branches on regional holidays, digital banking facilities will remain uninterrupted.

Source : ABPLIVE AI

Banking operations will come to a halt in Uttarakhand on Wednesday, 16th July, as all public and private sector banks in the state observe a holiday. The closure has been announced in accordance with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) holiday calendar, marking the regional festival of Harela. Banking services, however, will function normally across all other Indian states on the same day.

Customers in Uttarakhand will not be able to access in-branch services such as cheque deposits, cash withdrawals, or demand draft issuance during the one-day closure. Those with urgent in-person banking requirements are advised to complete their transactions in advance.

Why Are Banks Closed in Uttarakhand?

Harela, an important agrarian and environmental festival, is observed with deep-rooted cultural traditions in Uttarakhand, particularly in the Kumaon region. Celebrated at the onset of the Hindu month of Shravan, the festival involves sowing seeds like wheat, barley, and gram in small patches of soil. Ten days later, the sprouted greens—called Harela—are cut and placed on the heads of family members by elders as a symbol of blessings.

The celebration of Harela reflects themes of agricultural prosperity, environmental harmony, and familial unity. While the holiday is recognised in Uttarakhand, some regions of Himachal Pradesh also observe it.

Remaining Bank Holidays In July

Other regional holidays will follow in the month. On 17th July, banks in Meghalaya will close in honour of the death anniversary of freedom fighter U Tirot Singh. Tripura will see a closure on 19th July due to Ker Puja, while 20th July falls on a Sunday—a regular weekly holiday.

Towards the end of the month, banks across the country will remain shut on 27th July (Sunday) and 26th July (fourth Saturday). Additionally, 28th July will be a holiday in Sikkim for the Drukpa Chhe-ji festival.

Digital Banking Services Remain Unaffected

Despite the physical closure of bank branches on regional holidays, digital banking facilities will remain uninterrupted. Customers can continue using mobile banking, internet banking, and UPI platforms for services like fund transfers, bill payments, and balance enquiries. Those who need to perform tasks requiring branch access should plan ahead, especially in states with back-to-back holidays.