Rs2 trillion boost to India's UP state as Maha Kumbh 2025 begins

Dubai: The Maha Kumbh Mela began in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday morning, drawing over 5 million devotees for the first holy dip at the sacred Sangam — the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Dubbed the world’s largest gathering of humanity, this ancient event is expected to attract 400 million visitors, surpassing the combined populations of the US and Russia.

A millennia-old tradition

Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh transforms Prayagraj into a sprawling spiritual city spread over 4,000 hectares. This year’s event will continue until February 26, providing a confluence of devotion, culture, and economic opportunity.

Economic impact: A Rs2 trillion boost?

Maha Kumbh 2025 is projected to inject Rs2 trillion into Uttar Pradesh’s economy. With an estimated 400 million attendees spending an average of Rs5,000 each, the event could generate significant revenue. If the average expenditure rises to Rs10,000 per person, the economic impact could soar to Rs4 trillion, according to industry estimates, the IANS news agency said.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, hailing the Maha Kumbh as the world’s largest temporary city, highlighted its immense potential for economic growth, citing the 2019 Ardh Kumbh Mela, which contributed Rs1.2 trillion to the state’s economy with 240 million pilgrims.

Key economic drivers

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) outlined major contributors to the event’s economic impact:

Food and beverages: Packaged foods, water, juices, and meals may contribute Rs200 billion.

Religious items: Offerings such as lamps, idols, and incense sticks could add another Rs200 billion.

Transportation and logistics: Local and interstate travel services are expected to account for Rs100 billion.

Tourism: Tour guides, travel packages, and related services may generate R100 billion.

Healthcare and wellness: Temporary medical camps and Ayurvedic products could bring in Rs30 billion.

Media and entertainment: Advertising and promotional activities are projected to yield Rs100 billion.

A spiritual and cultural celebration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Maha Kumbh a celebration of India’s timeless spiritual heritage and faith in harmony. “Maha Kumbh 2025 brings countless people together in a sacred confluence of devotion and culture,” he shared on social media, wishing pilgrims a meaningful journey.

Chief Minister Adityanath described the event as a confluence of cultures, showcasing unity in diversity. “We welcome saints, devotees, and pilgrims to experience this grand spiritual gathering,” he said.

A rotating phenomenon

The Kumbh Mela, celebrated every 12 years, rotates among four sacred sites in India:

Haridwar (Ganga)

Ujjain (Shipra)

Nashik (Godavari)

Prayagraj (Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati)

Aligning with specific astrological positions, it marks one of the holiest times in Hinduism, drawing millions from across the globe.

As Prayagraj buzzes with activity, the Maha Kumbh 2025 stands not just as a spiritual spectacle but also as a testament to India’s rich cultural and economic vibrancy.

Maha Kumbh 2025: UP set to generate Rs2 trillion in revenue

Held every 12 years, the Maha Kumbh transforms Prayagraj into a sprawling spiritual city