The Mahakumbh 2025, which started on January 13, is expected to generate an impressive ₹2 lakh crore in revenue, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). This major religious event is anticipated to attract around 450 million devotees over 45 days, significantly boosting the local economy, especially in tourism and hospitality.
If each visitor spends an average of ₹5,000 during their trip, the event will easily reach the ₹2 lakh crore target. The CAIT estimates that local hotels, guesthouses, and lodges will earn about ₹40,000 crore from the many pilgrims attending the festival.
The Uttar Pradesh government has invested around ₹7,500 crore to prepare for the event, ensuring that everything is in place for the large crowds.
Reports from Live Mint indicate that helicopter services could earn about ₹3.5 crore each day, serving around 7,000 pilgrims daily for 45 days, with each trip costing ₹5,000.
Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary General of CAIT, said, “The Mahakumbh will see a lot of economic and trade activities. With an average spending of ₹5,000 per person, total spending is expected to exceed ₹2 lakh crore. This includes money spent on hotels, food, religious items, healthcare, and other services.” The food and beverage sector alone is expected to contribute ₹20,000 crore, while religious offerings like incense sticks, lamps, and idols could add another ₹20,000 crore.
Brands at Mahakumbh
Many well-known brands are taking advantage of the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj to showcase their products. Companies like Dettol, Dabur, Pepsico, Coca-Cola, and ITC are setting up stalls, creating rest areas for pilgrims, and giving out samples to attract attention.
Pepsico has made a big impression by installing a 30-foot-tall illuminated Mountain Dew bottle to help people navigate the area. They have also set up 500 charging points, sponsored by their energy drink, Sting, to help visitors keep their devices charged.
Reliance has also contributed by creating rest stops along the way, giving devotees a place to relax while promoting their brand.
As the Mahakumbh continues, it is clear that this event is not just a major religious gathering but also a great opportunity for economic growth and brand visibility, promising to have a lasting impact on the region.
