Is today a holiday? Yes, it is! March 31 marks Mahavir Jayanti, a significant day for the Jain community, leading to bank closures across India.
Banks in major cities like Ahmedabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Kolkata will remain closed today. This holiday is part of a total of 18 bank holidays observed in March, with Mahavir Jayanti being the last.
On this day, banks will shut down in cities including Chennai, Jaipur, Kanpur, Lucknow, Nagpur, Patna, Raipur, and Ranchi, affecting millions of customers.
Mahavir Jayanti celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, who is revered for his teachings on peace and righteousness.
In addition to bank closures, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) will also be closed today in observance of Shri Mahavir Jayanti. Trading in equities and derivatives will halt for the day.
However, the commodity derivatives segment will remain closed during the morning session but will reopen in the evening, allowing some trading activity later in the day.
This holiday is the first of two market holidays scheduled for this week, with the next bank holiday occurring on April 1 for closing yearly accounts.
Globally, Jain communities are set to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, marking the 2624th birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira, emphasizing the values of peace and self-discipline.
As the day unfolds, trading will resume on April 1, but for now, the focus is on the celebrations and observances of this important day.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional events or activities planned for today.
