Banks in Odisha to remain closed for these two days, Check details

Bhubaneswar: In view of Eid Milad-un-Nabi and Gajalaxmi Puja festival, the Odisha government announced that banks and other ‘banking institutions’ will remain shut for October 19-20. In an official notification, the revenue and disaster management department under the Odisha government made the announcement and noted that the aforementioned institutions shall remain closed for these two days in view of the statewide celebrations.

The two holidays for banks were declared under the explanation to Section 25 of the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881 (central Act XXVI of 1881), read with the notification of Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs dated June 8, 1957.

Click here to read the notification

What is the significance of Eid Milad celebrations?
Eid Milad-un-Nabi is celebrated annually to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. The occasion is observed in the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, which is the third month in the Islamic lunar calendar, commencing with the sighting of the moon.

The occasion also marks the death anniversary of the Prophet.

Why is Gajalaxmi Puja celebrated in Odisha?
Gajalaxmi Puja is celebrated in Odisha as part of a half-a-century-old tradition of the Dhenkanal district in the state. The Laxmi Puja celebrations continue for 11 days, starting from Kumara Purnima, and are marked with colourful decorations, temporary markets, music and dance programmes across the state in a grand yearly celebration where people from all religions, castes, and tribes participate.

Also read: Bank Holidays 2021: Banks to remain closed for 21 days in October; Check details