Delhi/Alive News: Bank branches remained closed in seven cities across five states on Tuesday, November 10, on account of Diwali Balipratipada, Govardhan Puja and Vikram Samvat New Year’s Day. The closures were observed in accordance with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) holiday calendar and applied only to selected cities.
Customers in the affected areas may have faced disruptions in services requiring a visit to bank branches, including cheque clearance and certain banking transactions.
Digital Banking Services Continue During Holidays
Despite the closure of physical branches, digital banking services remained available. Customers could access internet banking, mobile banking, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and ATMs for routine transactions such as money transfers, bill payments, balance enquiries and cash withdrawals.
However, transactions requiring assistance from bank officials or branch visits may have been delayed until regular banking operations resumed.
Why Were Banks Closed on November 10?
The closures were linked to festivals observed in different parts of the country.
Govardhan Puja commemorates the occasion when Lord Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill to protect villagers from heavy rainfall. Balipratipada is associated with the return of King Bali to his kingdom. In Gujarat, the occasion is also celebrated as Bestu Varas, marking the beginning of the Vikram Samvat New Year.
Banks to Remain Closed in Several Cities on November 11
According to the RBI’s holiday calendar, bank branches are also scheduled to remain closed on Wednesday, November 11, in several cities across the country.
These include Gangtok in Sikkim, Imphal in Manipur, Kanpur and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, Kolkata in West Bengal, and Shimla in Himachal Pradesh.
The closures will be observed on account of Lakshmi Puja (Diwali), Ningol Chakouba, Bhratridwitiya, Bhaidooj and Chitragupta Jayanti, depending on the respective state and city.
Customers planning branch visits are advised to check the applicable holiday schedule before heading to their banks.
