The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, which started on 13 January, is expected to attract an astonishing 450 million devotees over 45 days. This massive spiritual gathering is not just a religious event; it’s also set to bring an economic boost to the region, especially in sectors like tourism, hospitality, and retail.
According to estimates by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), the Maha Kumbh could generate revenue of ₹2 lakh crore. This figure takes into account spending on accommodation, food, travel, religious items, healthcare, and other essential services. If each visitor spends around ₹5,000 during their trip, this target could be easily achieved.
Boost to Local Economy
The local hotels, guesthouses, and lodges are expected to play a significant role in this economic activity, with an estimated ₹40,000 crore generated through bookings. Temporary accommodations and camps set up for the event will also see high demand. The Uttar Pradesh government has already invested ₹7,500 crore in organising and improving facilities for the Maha Kumbh, ensuring a smooth experience for the visitors.
Helicopter services have been introduced to offer a convenient travel option for pilgrims during the Mahakumbh. With an estimated cost of ₹5,000 per trip, these services are expected to serve thousands of visitors each day, adding significant value to the overall travel experience. Over the course of the festival, this initiative could see a steady demand, reflecting the event’s massive scale.
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Trade and Brand Presence
Food and beverages are expected to contribute ₹20,000 crore to the overall revenue. Religious items like incense sticks, lamps, and idols are projected to add another ₹20,000 crore to the trade. This makes the Maha Kumbh a major platform for both local traders and big brands.
Leading companies have also seized this opportunity to connect with the massive audience. Well known brands like Dettol, Dabur, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, ITC, and Reliance have set up creative displays, resting camps, and promotional activities to engage with visitors.
PepsiCo, for instance, has installed a 30-foot illuminated Mountain Dew bottle, serving as a landmark in the mela area. The company has also sponsored 500 charging points through its energy drink Sting, adding convenience for visitors. Meanwhile, Reliance has created ashram; like rest stops along the route, offering weary pilgrims a place to recharge while subtly promoting their brand.
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A Blend of Faith and Commerce
The Maha Kumbh Mela is not just a spiritual journey but a unique blend of tradition and modernity. For millions of visitors, it’s a chance to immerse themselves in devotion. For the economy, it’s an extraordinary opportunity to flourish.
With such large-scale activities and investments, the Maha Kumbh 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, leaving a significant mark on both the cultural and economic landscape of the region.
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