Bank customers in Sikkim should note that bank branches will remain closed on Friday, September 25, due to the Indrajatra festival. The holiday applies to both public and private sector banks in the state.
Customers planning to visit a bank branch on this date should check the holiday schedule for their location before making a trip. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, the September 25 closure is limited to Sikkim, while banks in other states will continue to operate.
Why Are Banks Closed on September 25?
The bank holiday in Sikkim has been announced on account of Indrajatra, also known as Yenya. The festival is an important cultural celebration of the Newar community in Sikkim and Nepal.
The festival has its origins in the Kathmandu Valley and dates back to the 10th century. It is associated with Lord Indra’s visit to Earth to collect Parijat flowers for Mother Earth. The celebrations also commemorate the events connected with rainfall and a prosperous harvest, with devotees expressing gratitude for these blessings.
During the festival, the Newar community observes an eight-day celebration featuring traditional rituals, dances and cultural performances. The Kumari chariot procession is one of the major attractions, while performances such as the Lakhe Dance and Puli Kishi, also known as the elephant dance, are part of the festivities.
The Sikkim government has declared a public holiday for the occasion.
Banks Will Remain Open in Other States
The September 25 bank holiday does not apply across the country. Bank branches will remain operational in states including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana.
Customers outside Sikkim can therefore follow the regular banking schedule unless a separate local holiday applies.
Other Bank Holidays and Strike in September
Banks will also remain closed on September 26 because it falls on the fourth Saturday of the month.
In addition, the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) has called for a three-day bank strike from September 28 to September 30. The organisation has stated that it represents around 90% of officers and staff in the banking sector.
Customers with important banking work during this period should keep the holiday and strike dates in mind and plan their branch visits accordingly.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes based on the bank holiday details mentioned in the source material. Bank holidays may vary by state, city and local observances. Customers should check the latest RBI holiday calendar or confirm with their bank before visiting a branch. The publisher is not responsible for any inconvenience arising from changes to the banking schedule.