Pilgrims To Nearly Double In Maha Kumbh 2025 From 2019, Uttar Pradesh Set To Get Rs 2 Lakh Crore Economic Boost

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Uttar Pradesh government jointly briefed foreign journalists on the unparalleled scale and significance of Mahakumbh 2025, expected to draw an unprecedented 45 crore devotees, including 15 lakh international visitors. 

The event hailed as the world’s largest religious congregation, is being held in Prayagraj, with preparations already underway to accommodate the massive influx.

During the briefing at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan, New Delhi, officials emphasixed Mahakumbh’s stature, surpassing global events like the Rio Carnival, Haj, and Oktoberfest. The estimated attendance is nearly double the 25 crore devotees recorded at the 2019 Kumbh Mela.

Economically, Mahakumbh 2025 is poised to contribute Rs 2 lakh crore to Uttar Pradesh’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), marking a projected growth of over 1 per cent. 

Sectors expected to benefit include daily essentials (Rs. 17,310 crores), hotels and travel (Rs. 2,800 crores), religious materials (Rs. 2,000 crores), and flowers (Rs. 800 crores), demonstrating the event’s wide-ranging impact on trade and commerce.

Prayagraj’s infrastructure has been extensively modernized for the event, with 14 new flyovers, nine permanent ghats, seven bus stations, and 12 km of temporary ghats constructed. 

Security measures include the deployment of 37,000 policemen, 14,000 home guards, and 2,750 AI-powered CCTV cameras. 

Healthcare services are equally robust, with 6,000 hospital beds, air ambulances, and 43 hospitals prepared to manage emergencies.

To ensure cleanliness, 10,200 sanitation workers and 1,800 Ganga Sevadut volunteers will be stationed across the venue.

A significant highlight of Mahakumbh 2025 is the participation of 13 Akharas, including the Kinnar Akhara and women-led Akharas, promoting inclusivity and gender equality. 

Beyond its religious significance, Mahakumbh 2025 will showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and economic resilience, reinforcing its position as a global beacon of spirituality and unity.