Chennai, January 16: As the four-day harvest celebrations across South India reach their final stages, Tamil Nadu will observe Uzhavar Thirunal on Saturday, January 17.  Often referred to as the "Farmers' Festival", this day is dedicated to honouring the agricultural community and the cattle that form the backbone of the state's rural economy. Following the celebrations of Thai Pongal and Mattu Pongal, Uzhavar Thirunal serves as a culmination of gratitude toward nature and the hardworking individuals who ensure food security for the region.

Significance and Traditions of Uzhavar Thirunal

The word Uzhavar translates to "farmer", and Thirunal to "festival day". While the initial days of the Pongal season focus on the Sun God and household cleansing, Uzhavar Thirunal shifts the spotlight to the human and animal labour involved in the harvest. Mattu Pongal 2026: Wishes, Greetings, WhatsApp Messages, Images and HD Wallpapers To Celebrate the 34rd Day of the Harvest Festival.

Key traditions observed during this period include:

Cattle Worship: Farmers decorate their bulls and cows with flower garlands, turmeric, and painted horns. The animals are fed a special preparation of Pongal (sweetened rice and lentils) as a mark of respect for their role in ploughing the fields.

Traditional Games: Many villages host Jallikattu (bull-taming events) and Rekla (bullock cart) races, which are considered ancient displays of valour and cultural heritage.

Community Feasts: Families gather for large communal meals using freshly harvested crops, including turmeric, ginger, and sugarcane.

Is Uzhavar Thirunal A Bank Holiday? Know What the RBI Holiday Calendar Says

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) holiday calendar, Uzhavar Thirunal is a notified holiday under the Negotiable Instruments Act.

Where it applies: Banks in Chennai will remain closed on Saturday, January 17, in view ofthe  Uzhavar Thirunal festival

Operational Areas: Since this is a regional holiday, banks in other major states - including Maharashtra, Delhi, and Karnataka - remain fully operational (unless they are observing a localised holiday or a weekend off).

Weekend Impact: For residents in Tamil Nadu, the Uzhavar Thirunal holiday falls on a Saturday, extending the banking break that began with Thiruvalluvar Day on Friday, January 16. Physical branches will not reopen until Monday, January 19. Magh Bihu 2026: Wishes, Greetings, Happy Bhogali Bihu WhatsApp Messages, Images and HD Wallpapers To Celebrate the Harvest Festival in Assam.

Availability of Digital Services

Despite the physical closure of bank branches in Chennai, the RBI has ensured that all digital infrastructure remains functional. Customers in the affected regions can still use:

Digital Payments: UPI, NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS services are available 24/7.

Mobile & Net Banking: For account management and bill payments.

ATM Networks: For cash withdrawals and basic banking services.

The Legacy of the Harvest

Uzhavar Thirunal is deeply rooted in Tamil culture, with historical records of the festival dating back over a millennium. Originally known as Puthyeedu, the festival has evolved into a modern symbol of "Thamizhar Thirunal" (The Day of the Tamils). In recent years, the state government has used this day to launch agricultural welfare schemes and award "Best Farmer" honours to those who have excelled in organic farming and sustainable practices.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 16, 2026 09:34 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).