Customers planning to visit a bank branch on Thursday, October 29, 2026, should check the holiday schedule for their state before travelling. According to the information provided, bank branches in Himachal Pradesh will remain closed on account of Karva Chauth, while branches in most other states are expected to operate as usual.
The holiday may affect customers who need to complete in-person banking work. However, digital banking facilities are expected to remain available. Here is a look at the reported closures, the reason behind the holiday and the services customers can continue using.
Bank Holiday on October 29: Which State Will Be Affected?
As per the supplied holiday information, banks in Himachal Pradesh will remain closed on Thursday, October 29, for Karva Chauth. The closure applies to public and private sector bank branches, including those of State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Bank of Baroda, Canara Bank, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank.
Banks in other states, including Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Karnataka, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Arunachal Pradesh, are listed as remaining open on this occasion.
Bank holidays can vary by state and location. Customers should check the Reserve Bank of India’s official holiday calendar or confirm with their bank before visiting a branch.
Why Is Karva Chauth Observed?
Karva Chauth is a Hindu festival widely observed by married women, particularly in North India. Traditionally, women fast from sunrise until moonrise and pray for their husbands’ health, longevity and marital well-being.
One popular legend associated with the festival is the story of Veeravati. According to the tale, her brothers tricked her into believing that the moon had risen. She ended her fast, after which her husband faced a serious danger. Through her devotion and prayers, her husband was eventually restored to life.
On Karva Chauth, women traditionally eat Sargi early in the morning before beginning the fast. In the evening, they offer prayers to Karva Mata, Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha and the Moon. After sighting the moon, they offer water and traditionally break their fast after looking at their husband’s face.
October 2026 Bank Holidays: Other Important Date
The supplied holiday list also mentions October 31, Saturday, as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary, or Sardar Patel Jayanti. According to the information provided, banks in Gujarat will remain closed on this occasion.
Since bank holidays depend on the RBI’s state-wise schedule, customers should verify the applicable date and location before planning branch visits.
Will Online Banking and UPI Work During the Holiday?
Even when bank branches are closed, customers can generally continue using digital banking services. Internet banking, mobile banking and UPI payments are expected to remain available, while ATM cash withdrawals can also be used.
However, certain branch-based services may be unavailable during a holiday. These can include cheque-related processing and other transactions that require staff assistance.
Customers with urgent banking work should check whether their service can be completed online or arrange a branch visit for a working day.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the supplied holiday information and is intended for general guidance. Bank holidays may differ by state, region and individual bank. Please verify the applicable schedule through the RBI’s official holiday calendar or your bank before making travel or financial arrangements.