List of States Observing Mahashivratri Bank Holiday on Friday, 8th March 2024
As the calendar turns to March 2024, bank customers across India are reminded to prepare for a series of bank holidays that will affect various banking operations. Among these, the Mahashivratri festival, celebrated with great fervor across the country, will see banks closing their doors in numerous states on Friday, 8th March 2024. This holiday, determined by both state governments and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), marks a significant observance in the Hindu calendar, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Also Read: List of Bank Holidays in March 2024 (Updated List)
Mahashivratri Bank Holiday
Mahashivratri, or the ‘Great Night of Shiva’, is a pivotal festival for Hindus around the world. It signifies various mythological events, including the marriage of Shiva to Parvati, making it a day of immense religious importance. In 2024, this auspicious occasion falls on Friday, 8th March, leading to a long weekend for many, as it is followed by the second Saturday and Sunday. The RBI has announced that banks in several states will remain closed in observance of this festival, affecting regular banking activities. This announcement is part of the broader RBI holiday list, which indicates 14 days of bank closures throughout March, including weekends, public holidays, and specific regional holidays.
List of States Observing Mahashivratri Bank Holiday
On the occasion of Mahashivratri, banks in the following states will not operate, granting their employees the opportunity to partake in the festival’s celebrations:
- Gujarat
- Maharashtra
- Karnataka
- Madhya Pradesh
- Orissa
- Chandigarh
- Uttarakhand
- Andhra Pradesh
- Telangana
- Jammu-Srinagar
- Kerala
- Uttar Pradesh
- Chhattisgarh
- Jharkhand
- Himachal Pradesh
This widespread observance underscores the cultural significance of Mahashivratri across various regions in India, reflecting the diverse yet unified spirit of the nation.
Also Read: How to Change Your Aadhaar Photo Online & Offline?
List of Other Holidays in March 2024
Apart from Mahashivratri, March 2024 is packed with other holidays that will see banks closing their doors on various days across different states. These include:
- Chapchar Kut and Bihar Divas: Specific regions celebrate these occasions, marking significant cultural and historical moments.
- Holi Celebrations: Holi, the festival of colors, brings with it multiple bank holidays, including Holi (Second Day) – Dhuleti/Dol Jatra/Dhulandi, and Yaosang 2nd Day/Holi. The dates and observance vary across states, reflecting the diverse ways in which this festival is celebrated.
- Good Friday: Towards the end of the month, Good Friday will also be a reason for bank closures in several states, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Specific dates to note in March 2024 are:
- March 26 (Tuesday): Yaosang 2nd Day/Holi – Bank holiday in Orissa, Manipur, and Bihar.
- March 27 (Wednesday): Holi – Bank holiday in Bihar.
- March 29 (Friday): Banks are closed in all states except Tripura, Assam, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Srinagar.
Conclusion
March 2024 stands out as a month rich in cultural and religious observances leading to multiple bank holidays across India. For bank customers, it’s essential to be aware of these dates, especially the widespread closure on Mahashivratri, to plan their banking needs accordingly. Whether participating in the joyous celebrations of Holi, observing the solemnity of Good Friday, or reveling in the spiritual significance of Mahashivratri, the diverse array of holidays reflects the rich tapestry of Indian culture and tradition.
