Maha Kumbh may generate ₹2-₹4L cr in 46-day-long mela

The biggest congregation of humanity at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj may also rake in mind-boggling revenues, even contributing one percent to the national GDP.

- PARAMITA GHOSH @ Prayagraj

Cousins Shivanshu Dubey and Rakesh Tiwari from Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, are at the Sangam having done their Shahi Snan and feeling quite thrilled about it.

"Shahi Snan has been happening at the Mahakumbh for long. What makes it special this year is that it happens during a rare celestial alignment that occurs only once every 144 years. I certainly won't be around for the next one," says Tiwari with a smile.

Dubey came out of the water with a "positive energy" surge. "It will carry me through as I prepare for the UPSC exams," he says. He ensured going for an early morning dip, at the hour of the 'manthan' (churning of the ocean) that yielded 'Amrit'.

Whether for material or spiritual gains, or a combination of both, most who come for the Shahi Snan feel charged by the holy dip. Like the cousins from Ghazipur, residents of Prayagraj also do the dips during the annual Magh Mela. Herambhaturvedi, retired HOD of History at Allahabad University, says it is part of the "intersectional journey" between the Magh and the Kumbh.