The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 started today in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. It's one of the largest spiritual and cultural events in the world. Over 50 lakh people gathered to take the first holy dip at Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet. The Kumbh Mela happens every 12 years and brings millions of people to Prayagraj. This year, more than 40 crore people are expected to attend, which is more than the populations of countries like the United States and Russia. The event is part of a long tradition that has been going on for thousands of years.
On January 13, nearly 60 lakh people gathered at the Sangam, the meeting point of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, to take the first holy bath of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
A huge event with massive economic growth for Uttar Pradesh
The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is expected to bring a lot of economic growth to Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populated state. The event will last for 45 days and has a budget of around Rs 7,000 crore, running until February 26, 2025. The government expects this event will generate up to Rs 2 lakh crore in economic impact.
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) says that visitors will contribute a large part to this economic growth. They estimate that each of the 40 crore visitors could spend at least Rs 5,000, which could add up to Rs 2 lakh crore. Some experts believe this number could even reach Rs 4 lakh crore if people spend more, around Rs 10,000 each.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted how big the Maha Kumbh Mela is. He mentioned that the Ardh Kumbh Mela in 2019 had already helped the state's economy by contributing Rs 1.2 lakh crore, with 24 crore people attending.
"With an expected turnout of 40 crore devotees this year, the Maha Kumbh is projected to generate up to Rs 2 lakh crore in economic growth," he said during an interview with a news channel.
He described the Maha Kumbh Mela as "the world's largest temporary city" that could accommodate between 50 lakh and one crore people at any given time.
Key Areas of Economic Activity and Contributions
The economic impact of the Maha Kumbh Mela will affect many areas. The food and drink sector, which includes things like biscuits, juices, and meals, is expected to bring in Rs 20,000 crore. Religious items like Ganga water, idols, lamps, and books are also expected to generate an additional Rs 20,000 crore.
Transportation services will be important for the event, with an expected Rs 10,000 crore generated from logistics and travel. The tourism sector, including things like tour guides and travel packages, will also bring in Rs 10,000 crore.
Temporary services like Ayurvedic products and health camps are expected to add Rs 3,000 crore. Tech services such as digital payments, online tickets, and Wi-Fi will generate around Rs 1,000 crore. Finally, the entertainment and media industry, including advertising, is predicted to contribute Rs 10,000 crore.
PM Modi and CM Adityanath reflect on the special significance of Maha Kumbh
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, called the beginning of the Maha Kumbh Mela a "very special day" for the millions of people participating in this sacred event.
"Maha Kumbh 2025 commences in Prayagraj, bringing together countless people in a sacred confluence of faith, devotion, and culture. The Maha Kumbh embodies India's timeless spiritual heritage and celebrates faith and harmony," Prime Minister Modi wrote on X.
He expressed happiness at seeing Prayagraj filled with devotees, coming to take the holy dip and seeking blessings. "Wishing all pilgrims and tourists a wonderful stay," he said.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also shared his thoughts on the occasion. "The world's largest spiritual and cultural gathering 'Mahakumbh' is starting today in the holy city of Prayagraj. All the revered saints, Kalpvasis, and devotees who have come to experience unity in diversity, to meditate, and to take a holy bath at the confluence of faith and modernity are heartily welcomed,” Adityanath wrote.
International attention and preparations for the event
The Kumbh Mela rotates every 12 years between four sacred locations: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj. Each event takes place when astrological conditions are perfect, making it one of the holiest times in Hinduism. During the event, devotees take a ritual bath in the river, or Shahi Snan, believing that it will purify their souls and cleanse their sins.
This year, the dates of the Shahi Snans are expected to attract the largest crowds: Makar Sankranti (January 14), Mauni Amavasya (January 29), Basant Panchami (February 3), Maghi Purnima (February 12), and Mahashivratri (February 26).
Preparations for the mega event are extensive, with about 1,50,000 tents set up for the visitors. The event also features 3,000 kitchens, 1,45,000 restrooms, and 99 parking lots for the convenience of the attendees.
The government has increased security with 40,000 police officers on duty. Additionally, Indian Railways has arranged for nearly 100 extra trains to transport visitors to Prayagraj.
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, added that over 15 lakh foreign tourists are expected to visit this year. A special tent city with services such as Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchakarma has also been set up to welcome international visitors.