On August 15, the RBI issued its holiday calendar, marking Monday, October 14, 2026, as a closed day for all scheduled and non‑scheduled banks under the Mahanavmi observance.
The list shows 200 branches, including major hubs in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, will be shut, while 1,500 branches will operate on a reduced schedule, providing a balance between tradition and customer service.
Customers in Chennai reported a spike in ATM usage as withdrawals surged in the hours before the holiday, with one account holder noting, "I had to line up for a cash withdrawal before the bank closed."
RBI Secretary K. N. R. Prasad said the move aligns with the bank's duty to respect cultural calendars and minimize disruption for the public.
Banks are urging patrons to clear pending transactions before the weekend; the next working day, October 17, will see full operations restored.