19 January 2026: Calendar, Festivals, Special Day, Public & Bank Holiday Updates in India

Today

Date - 19 January 2026
Day - Monday

1. Festivals & Observances

Today, 19 January 2026, there is no major nationwide festival being celebrated across India. The sacred observance of Mauni Amavasya was completed yesterday (18 January), when devotees across the nation took holy dips in rivers, especially at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, observed silence, and performed rituals for ancestors.

While there is no specific festival today, this is a moment to reflect on the importance of spiritual discipline in daily life. The Bhagavad Gita teaches us that every day is an opportunity to practice self-control, devotion, and service. Lord Krishna reminds us that consistent spiritual practice is more valuable than occasional grand gestures. A quiet Monday like this allows us to focus on our duties, serve others, and remember the Supreme Lord in all our actions.

In our busy lives, such ordinary days are blessings in disguise. They offer us the space to strengthen our inner connection with the divine without the distractions of external celebrations. True devotion lies not in festivals alone, but in the daily remembrance of Lord Krishna and living according to dharma.

2. Special Day

While today is not a nationally recognized special day in India, it holds significance in the hearts of people who remember great personalities on their birth and death anniversaries. These individuals have left lasting impressions on Indian culture, literature, and history.

Birth Anniversary

Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar

Vishnu Sakharam Khandekar was born on 19 January 1898 in Sangli, Maharashtra. He was one of the most respected writers of Marathi literature. His novels, short stories, essays, and critical writings are admired for their deep insight into human nature and society. Khandekar received the prestigious Jnanpith Award in 1974, becoming the first Marathi writer to receive this honour. He was also awarded the Sahitya Akademi Award and the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to Indian literature. His works reflect a blend of realism and idealism, exploring themes of social reform, human relationships, and moral dilemmas. He passed away on 2 September 1976, leaving behind a rich literary legacy.

Kaifi Azmi

Kaifi Azmi was born on 19 January 1919 in Mijwan, Uttar Pradesh. He was a renowned Urdu poet and lyricist who brought poetry to the common people through his simple yet powerful words. Azmi was associated with the Progressive Writers' Movement and used his poetry to address social issues such as poverty, injustice, and inequality. He wrote memorable lyrics for Hindi films, including classics like "Kar Chale Hum Fida" and "Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho." His work earned him the Padma Shri in 1974 and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1973. Azmi remained committed to social causes throughout his life and inspired generations with his compassionate and socially conscious poetry. He passed away on 10 May 2002.

Soumitra Chatterjee

Soumitra Chatterjee was born on 19 January 1935 in Kolkata, West Bengal. He was a legendary actor and a towering figure in Bengali cinema and theatre. Chatterjee is best remembered for his collaboration with the legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray, beginning with the iconic film Apur Sansar (The World of Apu) in 1959. Over his illustrious career, he worked in more than 300 films and became the face of Bengali intellectual and artistic cinema. He was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2012, the highest recognition in Indian cinema, making him the first Bengali actor to receive this honour. He was also awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2004 and France's Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. Beyond acting, he was a poet, playwright, and painter. Chatterjee passed away on 15 November 2020, leaving an irreplaceable void in Indian cinema.

Death Anniversary

Maharana Pratap

Maharana Pratap was born on 9 May 1540 in Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan, and passed away on 19 January 1597 in Chavand, Mewar. He was a valiant Rajput king of the Sisodia dynasty and the ruler of Mewar. Maharana Pratap is remembered as a symbol of courage, self-respect, and unwavering resistance against the Mughal Empire. Despite overwhelming odds and limited resources, he refused to submit to Emperor Akbar and fought fiercely to protect the sovereignty of Mewar. The Battle of Haldighati in 1576 remains a testament to his bravery, where he fought against a much larger Mughal army. Though he faced hardships and lived in forests during difficult times, he never surrendered. His loyal horse, Chetak, is also celebrated in folklore for his bravery during the battle. Maharana Pratap's life embodies the spirit of dharma, honour, and patriotism, and he continues to inspire millions across India.

Devendranath Tagore

Devendranath Tagore was born on 15 May 1817 in Kolkata and passed away on 19 January 1905. He was a prominent philosopher, religious reformer, and the father of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Devendranath played a key role in the Brahmo Samaj, a socio-religious reform movement that sought to eliminate idol worship and promote monotheism, rationalism, and social equality. He emphasized the importance of spirituality, meditation, and direct communion with God. His work laid the foundation for progressive thought in Bengal and influenced the intellectual awakening of the 19th century. Known as "Maharshi" (great sage), he dedicated his life to spiritual and social reform. His autobiography, Atmajivani, provides deep insights into his spiritual journey and reformist ideals.

Osho Rajneesh

Osho Rajneesh, also known as Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, was born on 11 December 1931 in Kuchwada, Madhya Pradesh, and passed away on 19 January 1990 in Pune, Maharashtra. He was a spiritual teacher, philosopher, and mystic whose teachings blended Eastern mysticism with Western philosophy. Osho emphasized meditation, awareness, love, celebration, courage, creativity, and humor. He spoke extensively on a wide range of subjects including Zen, Taoism, Tantra, Buddhism, Sufism, and the teachings of Jesus and Krishna. His dynamic meditation techniques attracted followers from around the world. While his lifestyle and teachings were often controversial, his impact on modern spiritual discourse remains significant. Osho's works have been translated into numerous languages, and his ashram in Pune continues to draw seekers from across the globe.

Upendranath Ashk

Upendranath Ashk was born on 14 December 1910 in Jalandhar, Punjab, and passed away on 19 January 1996. He was a distinguished Hindi and Urdu writer, playwright, and novelist. Ashk is best known for his novel Girty Diwarein (Falling Walls), which explored the social and political landscape of pre-independence India. He was a prolific writer who authored numerous plays, short stories, and novels. His works often depicted the struggles of the common man, social injustices, and the changing fabric of Indian society. Ashk was also a talented translator and contributed significantly to Hindi theatre. His literary contributions earned him recognition and respect in the Indian literary community, and his works continue to be studied and appreciated for their depth and realism.

3. Holiday Updates

Public Holiday: Today, 19 January 2026, is not a nationally or state-declared public holiday in India. Government offices, educational institutions, and businesses remain open across the country.

Bank Holiday: Today, 19 January 2026, is not a bank holiday as per Reserve Bank of India guidelines. All banks across India remain open, and regular banking services are fully operational.