News Brief
This religious event takes place every 12 years and attracts millions of devotees.
The Mahakumbh 2025, the world's largest human gathering, commenced in Prayagraj today (13 January), with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) projecting trade worth approximately Rs 2 lakh crore during the month-long event.
An estimated 40 crore visitors are expected to attend, boosting local trade, tourism, and employment. Accommodation and tourism are anticipated to be the largest contributors, with local hotels, guesthouses, and temporary lodging arrangements generating Rs 40,000 crore.
“Mahakumbh will witness large-scale economic and trade activities. An estimate suggests that with an average expenditure of Rs 5,000 per person during religious travel, the total spending will exceed Rs 2 lakh crore. This includes spending on hotels, guesthouses, temporary accommodations, food, religious items, healthcare, and other services,” said Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary General of CAIT.
Transportation and logistics, including local and interstate services, freight, and taxis, are estimated to generate Rs 10,000 crore, while tourism services like tour guides and travel packages could bring in an additional Rs 10,000 crore.
Healthcare services, including temporary medical camps and Ayurvedic products, are likely to account for Rs 3,000 crore, while sectors such as e-ticketing, digital payments, Wi-Fi services, and mobile charging stations are projected to generate Rs 1,000 crore.
Entertainment and media, including advertising and promotional activities, are expected to contribute Rs 10,000 crore.