Bank Holiday Alert: Is Your Branch Closed Today for Hazrat Ali’s Birthday?

Bank holiday on Hazrat Ali: Where are banks closed on January 3? Check list

It’s the first weekend of 2026, and you’ve got a stack of bills to pay or a loan document to submit. But wait—is your bank even open today? If you’re in Uttar Pradesh or a few other select states, the answer is likely no. January 3 marks a bank holiday in several parts of India to observe the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali, a revered figure in Islamic tradition.

While digital banking keeps your money accessible 24/7, this bank holiday January 3 means no in-branch services—no cash deposits, no passbook updates, and no face-to-face consultations. For millions of Indians who still rely on physical branches, especially in semi-urban and rural areas, this closure can be a real inconvenience if not planned for.

Table of Contents

Why Are Banks Closed on January 3? The Significance of Hazrat Ali’s Birthday

In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) designates three types of bank holidays: national, state-specific, and regional. The bank holiday January 3 falls under the state-specific category. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad, who is deeply respected across various Islamic traditions.

This holiday is not observed nationwide. Instead, it’s recognized only in states with significant Muslim populations or historical ties to the commemoration. The most notable is Uttar Pradesh, where the closure is widely implemented across cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, and Agra. Other states may also observe it, but the list varies by year and local government notification.

State-Wise Bank Holiday List for January 3, 2026

Based on the official 2026 holiday calendar issued by the RBI and major public sector banks, here’s where you can expect branches to be closed on Saturday, January 3:

  • Uttar Pradesh (statewide closure for most public and private banks)
  • Telangana (partial closures in Hyderabad and surrounding areas)
  • Andhra Pradesh (select branches, particularly in Kurnool and Guntur)
  • Karnataka (limited closures in specific districts like Bidar and Gulbarga)

Importantly, banks in metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai will remain open on January 3, as this holiday is not on their regional list.

For a complete, downloadable calendar, check our guide on [INTERNAL_LINK:full-rbi-bank-holidays-2026].

What Banking Services Still Work on a Bank Holiday?

Don’t panic if your branch is closed. Modern banking ensures you’re never truly cut off:

  • Internet & Mobile Banking: Transfers, bill payments, and balance checks work seamlessly.
  • ATMs: Cash withdrawals, mini-statements, and PIN changes are fully operational.
  • UPI & Digital Wallets: Apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, and Paytm function without interruption.
  • NEFT/RTGS/IMPS: All electronic fund transfer systems are available 24×7.

However, note that any transaction requiring a physical signature, document verification, or cash deposit over a certain threshold will have to wait until the next working day.

Upcoming Key Bank Holidays in January 2026

January is packed with holidays. After the January 3 closure, mark these key dates:

  1. January 14 – Makar Sankranti / Pongal: State holiday in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat.
  2. January 26 – Republic Day: A nationwide bank holiday. All branches across India will be closed.

For authoritative and up-to-date information, always refer to the official Reserve Bank of India website, which publishes the master list of bank holidays for all states and union territories.

How to Plan Your Finances Around Bank Holidays

Proactive planning prevents last-minute stress. Here’s how:

  • Bookmark your bank’s holiday calendar. Most banks publish it on their website under “Customer Service” or “Branch Locator.”
  • Schedule transactions early. If you know a holiday is coming, handle in-branch tasks a day or two in advance.
  • Use auto-pay for recurring bills. This eliminates the need for manual intervention during closures.
  • Keep a buffer in your account. Avoid relying on same-day cash deposits if a holiday falls on a weekend you typically visit the bank.

Smart money management isn’t just about saving—it’s about timing.

Conclusion: Know Your Holidays, Avoid the Hassle

The bank holiday January 3 for Hazrat Ali’s birthday is a reminder that India’s banking system mirrors its cultural and religious diversity. While the closure is limited to specific regions, being informed can save you a wasted trip and a day of financial frustration.

So before you head out to your local branch this Saturday, double-check: is your state on the list? A quick 10-second search could save you an hour of your day.

Sources

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top