Maha Kumbh 2025: Faith Fuels ₹25,000 Crore Economy

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is not only a grand religious gathering but also an economic powerhouse. With an estimated 40 crore visitors expected during the event starting January 13, this 45-day festival is set to generate significant business opportunities across sectors like hospitality, tourism, and retail.

Massive Budget and Infrastructure Investment

The Uttar Pradesh government, led by CM Yogi Adityanath, has allocated a ₹6,990 crore budget for the Mela, focusing on 549 projects for infrastructure and sanitation. This is nearly double the ₹3,700 crore spent on 700 projects during the 2019 Kumbh. Officials project the Mela to generate ₹25,000 crore in revenue and contribute ₹2 lakh crore to the state economy.

₹25,000 Crore Turnover Predicted

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) anticipates a ₹25,000 crore turnover from the Mela. Key revenue drivers include:

• Puja items: ₹5,000 crore
• Dairy products: ₹4,000 crore
• Flowers: ₹800 crore
  The hospitality sector alone is expected to contribute ₹6,000 crore, with luxury accommodations in high demand.

Luxury Tents and Hotels

Over 1.6 lakh tents have been set up, including 2,200 luxury tents with nightly rates between ₹18,000 and ₹20,000. Premium options, like Sangam Nivas, cost ₹1 lakh per night, offering amenities like private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and butler services. The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation has also introduced budget-friendly dormitories starting at ₹1,500 per night.

Food and Hospitality Boom

RR Hospitality Pvt Ltd. has invested ₹12-13 crore to set up food courts in 14 of the Mela’s 25 sectors. The company expects a turnover of ₹100-200 crore, featuring brands like Starbucks, Coca-Cola, and Domino’s. Over 7,000 vendors are participating, with 2,000 trained in digital payments to cater to the vast influx of pilgrims.

Enhancing Tourism and Infrastructure

To manage crowds of 10,000-20,000 pilgrims at a time, special corridors, floating jetties, and temple tourism have been introduced. Hotel infrastructure has also improved, with 100 homestays now registered, up from just 15 last year.

Pop-Up Economy Drivers

The Mela offers opportunities for businesses of all sizes, from small vendors to luxury hotel chains. Experts estimate the event will generate ₹200 crore in temporary livelihoods for workers and small-scale vendors.

A Gathering of Faith and Commerce

The Maha Kumbh Mela combines devotion and commerce, creating a marketplace where spirituality meets economic growth. Its massive scale offers businesses a unique opportunity to thrive while catering to millions of pilgrims.

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