Maha Kumbh 2025 Travel and Hospitality
The travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors are projected to generate approximately INR 2,800 crore in revenue during the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. According to government estimates, over 45 crore devotees are expected to converge in the city, establishing Maha Kumbh 2025 as the largest religious gathering in the world. Beyond its spiritual and religious importance, the event is anticipated to drive significant economic growth for Uttar Pradesh, contributing to an estimated 1% increase in the state’s gross domestic product (GSDP).
In a special briefing held in Delhi for foreign correspondents, senior officials from the Uttar Pradesh government and the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the religious, cultural, and economic significance of the Maha Kumbh. Scheduled to run from January 13 to February 26, 2025, the event is being promoted as a platform fostering unity and equality, bringing together people from diverse cultures and traditions.
The officials emphasized the unprecedented scale of the Maha Kumbh 2025, with attendance figures expected to surpass all major global gatherings. Compared to the 25 crore attendees in 2019, this year’s event is projected to attract 45 crore visitors, including approximately 15 lakh foreign tourists. For perspective, global events like the Rio Carnival, Haj, and Oktoberfest draw 70 lakh, 25 lakh, and 72 lakh attendees, respectively, underscoring the unmatched magnitude of the Maha Kumbh.
The economic impact of the event is also notable, with an estimated contribution of INR 2 lakh crore to India’s economy. Trade in daily essentials alone is projected to generate INR 17,310 crore, while the hotel and travel sectors are expected to contribute INR 2,800 crore. Additionally, religious materials and flowers are anticipated to bring in INR 2,000 crore and INR 800 crore, respectively.
To ensure the smooth execution of the event, the government has undertaken extensive infrastructure development in Prayagraj. Key projects include the construction of 14 new flyovers, nine permanent ghats, seven new bus stations, and 12 kilometers of temporary ghats. Security arrangements have been significantly enhanced, with the deployment of 37,000 policemen, 14,000 home guards, and 2,750 AI-enabled CCTV cameras.
The health sector has also been bolstered, with provisions for 6,000 hospital beds, 43 medical facilities, and air ambulances. Maintaining cleanliness during the event is a priority, with 10,200 sanitation workers and 1,800 Ganga Sevadut volunteers deployed.
Participation from 13 Akharas, including the Kinnar Akhara, Dashnam Sanyasini Akhara, and women’s Akharas, highlights the event’s progressive approach and commitment to gender equality. The Maha Kumbh aims to promote unity across caste, religion, and cultural diversity, while also serving as a global showcase for India’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential.
The briefing was attended by key officials, including Sanjeev Singh, OSD to the Chief Minister; Awanish Kumar Awasthi, Advisor to the Chief Minister; Shishir, Director of Information, Uttar Pradesh; Mrityunjay Kumar, Media Advisor to the Chief Minister; and Randhir Jaiswal, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs.
Beyond its spiritual & religious importance, Maha Kumbh is anticipated to drive economic growth for Uttar Pradesh, contributing to an estimated 1% increase in the state’s gross domestic product.
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