The grand Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, commenced today at Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, with more than 50 lakh devotees taking a holy dip at Sangam. This sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers witnessed the inauguration of a spiritual spectacle that is deeply rooted in Indian culture and tradition.
Dubbed as the "largest gathering of humanity," this millennia-old event is held every 12 years. The ongoing Kumbh Mela spans over 4,000 hectares and is expected to draw more than 40 crore devotees from across the globe by its conclusion on February 26, 2025. This turnout surpasses the combined populations of the United States and Russia, making it an event of unparalleled magnitude.
The Maha Kumbh Mela is not only a religious phenomenon but also a significant economic event for Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India. The state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, allocated a budget of approximately ₹7,000 crore for the 45-day event. This massive investment is projected to yield extraordinary economic returns.
According to industry estimates, the Maha Kumbh could generate up to ₹2 lakh crore in economic activity if the average expenditure per visitor is around ₹5,000. With the potential for this figure to rise to ₹10,000 per person, the total economic impact could soar to ₹4 lakh crore. This economic surge is anticipated to boost Uttar Pradesh’s nominal and real GDP by over 1%.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the transformative impact of the 2019 Ardh Kumbh Mela, which contributed ₹1.2 lakh crore to the state’s economy. With the Maha Kumbh 2025 expected to host nearly double the number of pilgrims, the economic benefits are predicted to be unprecedented.
The Maha Kumbh Mela transforms Prayagraj into the world’s largest temporary city, capable of accommodating 50 lakh to one crore people at any given moment. The sprawling township features an extensive network of tents, sanitation facilities, healthcare centers, and security arrangements, showcasing India’s logistical and infrastructural prowess.
The Maha Kumbh Mela stimulates numerous sectors, with food and beverages playing a prominent role. According to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), this sector alone is expected to contribute ₹20,000 crore, including sales of packaged foods, water, biscuits, juices, and meals.
Religious items such as oil lamps, idols, Ganga water, incense sticks, and religious books are another major area of economic activity, contributing an additional ₹20,000 crore. The vibrant trade during the event underscores the deep integration of spirituality and commerce in the fabric of the Kumbh Mela.
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of India’s spiritual heritage while simultaneously driving substantial economic growth. With millions of pilgrims flocking to Prayagraj, the event not only nourishes the soul but also serves as a catalyst for development, reinforcing Uttar Pradesh’s position as a key economic and cultural hub in the country.
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