Amid build-up, past data indicates Mahakumbh to be a money spinner

The fair will be the hub of a wide range of economic activities and is likely to witness significant revenue inputs

- By S John

IUMBH NAGAR (PRAYAG): The grandeur and scale of the Mahakumbh increases as the Uttar Pradesh government is aiming that this religious event is expected to draw an estimated 400 million pilgrims and visitors. Past data and estimates indicate that this mega event will be a big-ticket churner.

Like elections and multi-sports championships, the Mahakumbh is all set to be a major economic activity, creating and generating revenue, according to experts and those who have observed the fair in the past. The mega event will begin on January 13 and conclude on February 26.

The last Mahakumbh held in 2019 generated a total revenue of Rs 12,000 crore, while the Kumbh Mela 2019 churned out a revenue of Rs 1.2 lakh crore, according to a study by the Confederation of Indian Industry. Economic activities associated with the Kumbh generated employment for over 6 lakh people in 2019 across various sectors.

Estimates of the potential of the Mahakumbh 2025 vary with experts placing the figure between Rs 1.5 lakh crore and Rs 2 lakh crore. The event has already seen significant infrastructural investments. The services and supplies would range from basic management to hotels, transport, food grains to helicopters and AI-based services.

During his Prayagraj visit on December 13, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the economic aspect of the fair, highlighting that it not only gives social benefits but also provides economic empowerment to the people.

TURNOVER ESTIMATES
Just the basic items of daily need required by devotees during Mahakumbh 2025 would be around Rs 17,310 crore or above, as per turnover estimates prepared by the U.P. Chapter of Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT).