### Bank Holidays on January 14, 2026: Makar Sankranti and Regional Observances On January 14, 2026, many banks across India will be closed in observance of Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu, significant harvest festivals celebrated in various regions. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) designates these holidays based on cultural importance, leading to regional variations in bank operations. This holiday is particularly relevant as it marks the sun's transition into Capricorn, a time celebrated with various rituals and festivities across the country. ### Overview of Bank Closures and Regional Variations 1. **Bank Holiday Details**: - Banks will be closed in specific states due to Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu celebrations [https://www.livemint.com/industry/banking/bank-holiday-today-14-january-are-banks-open-or-closed-today-for-makar-sankranti-2026-check-state-wise-list-here-11768328697352.html]. - The RBI's holiday calendar outlines these closures, which are not uniform across the nation [https://www.timesbull.com/business/bank-holiday-are-banks-closed-on-january-14-for-makar-sankranti-check-rbi-holiday-list-691700.html]. 2. **State-wise Bank Holiday List**: - Banks will remain closed in four states specifically for Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu [https://news24online.com/india/makar-sankranti-2026-are-banks-open-or-closed-on-january-14-check-state-wise-list-here/711124]. - The closures are regional, meaning that while some states observe the holiday, others may not, allowing for continued banking operations in those areas [https://www.latestly.com/business/bank-holiday-today-january-14-know-if-banks-are-open-or-closed-on-wednesday-for-makar-sankranti-and-magh-bihu-7274387.html]. 3. **Cultural Significance**: - Makar Sankranti is celebrated with various customs, including kite flying, holy baths, and sun worship, marking a significant cultural event in India [https://pragativadi.com/makar-sankranti-2026-date-timings-history-significance-and-why-the-festival-is-important]. - The festival symbolizes the end of winter and the beginning of longer days, representing renewal and hope [https://eflip.in/makar-sankranti-2026-why-january-14-is-special-the-stories-science-and-varied-celebrations-of-makar-sankranti]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Bank Holiday Calendar**: The RBI's official holiday calendar specifies the dates and reasons for bank closures, which include regional festivals like Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu [https://www.livemint.com/industry/banking/bank-holiday-today-14-january-are-banks-open-or-closed-today-for-makar-sankranti-2026-check-state-wise-list-here-11768328697352.html]. - **Cultural Observances**: Makar Sankranti is recognized across India under various names, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu and Lohri in Punjab, highlighting its widespread cultural significance [https://eflip.in/makar-sankranti-2026-why-january-14-is-special-the-stories-science-and-varied-celebrations-of-makar-sankranti]. ### Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Bank Operations and Cultural Celebrations 1. **Bank Closures**: On January 14, 2026, banks will be closed in specific states due to Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu, as per the RBI's holiday calendar. 2. **Regional Variations**: The observance of bank holidays is not uniform across India, with some states remaining operational while others close for the festivities. 3. **Cultural Importance**: Makar Sankranti is a significant festival that marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn, celebrated with various traditions that emphasize renewal and gratitude. For anyone planning to visit a bank on this date, it is crucial to check the specific state-wise holiday list to avoid inconvenience [https://www.timesnownews.com/business-economy/industry/bank-holiday-alert-banks-to-remain-closed-up-to-5-days-this-week-check-the-state-wise-list-here-article-153440890].