The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
PRAYAGRAJ, FEBRUARY 27, 2025
The just concluded Maha Kumbh Mela-2025 in Prayagraj has emerged as a major economic driver, contributing over Rs 3 lakh crore to Uttar Pradesh’s economy. The 45-day-long spiritual congregation, which culminated on Maha Shivratri, has significantly propelled the state’s journey towards achieving its ambitious $1 trillion economy target.
On the final day of the Maha Kumbh, which commenced on January 13, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on social media that a record-breaking 66.21 crore devotees had taken part in the sacred bath at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj.
Industry experts estimate that the festival generated business worth over Rs 3 lakh crore (approximately $360 billion) through various goods and services, marking it as one of India’s largest economic events. According to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal, initial projections anticipated the arrival of 40 crore people and business transactions of around Rs 2 lakh crore. However, the overwhelming participation from across the country and abroad led to an unprecedented economic boost.
The surge in demand had a ripple effect across multiple sectors, including hospitality, accommodation, food and beverages, transport and logistics, religious attire, puja essentials, handicrafts, textiles, and consumer goods. Airfares to Prayagraj remained firm throughout the March quarter, defying the usual seasonal dip, as devotees flocked to the city for the grand event.
Notably, the economic impact was not confined to Prayagraj alone. Cities and towns within a 100-150 km radius also witnessed a surge in business activities, significantly bolstering local economies. The Uttar Pradesh government played a crucial role in facilitating this massive congregation by investing over Rs 7,500 crore in infrastructural developments. This included the construction of 14 new flyovers, six underpasses, the widening of over 200 roads, and the modernization of railway stations and the airport terminal in Prayagraj. Additionally, Rs 1,500 crore was allocated exclusively for Kumbh Mela arrangements.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 has once again underscored its status as not just a spiritual event but a massive economic enabler, reaffirming its role in shaping the state’s financial and infrastructural landscape.
