The Maha Kumbh festival in the holy city of Prayagraj is estimated to have generated over Rs 3 Lakh Crore ($360 Billion) in business through goods and services, making it one of India’s largest economic events. According to the Uttar Pradesh government, more than 53 Crore devotees have already taken a holy dip in the sacred waters, with millions continuing to visit daily. It is projected that nearly 60 Crore people will participate in the ritual by February 26. The Mahakumbh, which occurs once every 144 years, is being held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, attracting millions of devotees over the six-week period.
According to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Secretary General and Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal, the Mahakumbh is boosting local trade with a surge in demand for Maha Kumbh-themed products such as diaries, calendars, jute bags, and stationery. “Due to the unprecedented enthusiasm across the country, it is now expected that nearly 60 Crore people will participate in the Maha Kumbh by February 26, leading to a massive business turnover exceeding Rs 3 Lakh Crore. Sales are reported to have increased due to meticulous branding. It also proves that India’s sanatan economy has deep-rooted strength, playing a significant role in the country’s overall economic framework,” Khandelwal added.
This has provided a significant boost to Uttar Pradesh’s economy and created new business opportunities. Before the commencement of the Maha Kumbh, initial estimates was projected the arrival of 40 Crore people and business transactions worth around Rs 2 Lakh Crore. According to the Uttar Pradesh government, over 53 Crore devotees have already taken a holy dip in the sacred waters, with millions continuing to visit daily.
Highlighting the economic impact of the Mahakumbh, Khandelwal noted that several business sectors have witnessed large-scale economic activities, including hospitality and accommodation; food and beverage sector; transport and logistics; religious attire; puja samagri, and handicrafts, textiles, apparel and other consumer goods; healthcare and wellness services; media, advertising and entertainment; civic services; telecom, mobile, AI-based technology, CCTV cameras, and other equipment.
Khandelwal further pointed out that the economic benefits of Mahakumbh are not limited to Prayagraj. Cities and towns within a 150 km radius have also experienced a significant business surge, strengthening local economies.
Additionally, Ayodhya, Varanasi, and other religious destinations have seen an increase in pilgrim visits, as devotees travel for the darshan and worship of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, Lord Shiva in Varanasi, and others in the nearby districts. This has further fueled massive economic activities in these areas.
