Maha Kumbh: Boatmen to turn storytellers, guides get a makeover to enrich tourist experience

The grand Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj is not just about spirituality—it is a game-changer for Uttar Pradesh’s tourism landscape. The Yogi Adityanath government is pulling out all the stops to transform the event into an economic windfall, with over 45,000 families expected to benefit through direct or indirect employment opportunities.

Officials say the massive congregation, set to attract over 40 crore visitors, will generate business worth Rs 3 lakh crore. “Mahakumbh is more than an event—it’s a testament to Uttar Pradesh’s potential as a global tourism destination,” said Aparajita Singh, Regional Tourism Officer, Prayagraj.

To prepare for the world’s largest religious gathering, the state has rolled out an ambitious skill development drive targeting boatmen, tour guides, street vendors and taxi drivers. The goal is simple: deliver a world-class experience to visitors and boost the livelihoods of thousands of local families.

“Training is not just about upgrading skills; it is about creating a sense of pride among service providers,” said Prakhar Tiwari, an assistant professor at Manyavar Kanshiram Tourism Management Institute, which is leading several programs.

Boatmen Turn Storytellers

For boatmen who ply their trade on the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, this Mahakumbh marks a new chapter. Under the initiative, 2,000 boatmen are being trained as river guides, enabling them to share cultural and historical narratives with tourists.

Sunil Pandey, a boatman, said, “Earlier, rowing a boat was just a means to earn a living. Now, I can talk about Prayagraj’s heritage. It makes my work fulfilling.”

So far, 300 boatmen have completed the program, with many already doubling their incomes by offering guided tours to visitors.

Polishing Tour Guides for a Global Audience

Tour guides, who serve as the face of Prayagraj’s tourism, are also undergoing transformation. Over 1,000 guides are being trained in hospitality, management, and storytelling techniques.

“Tourists don’t just want to see—they want to experience,” said Neha Sharma, a newly certified guide. “This training has given me the confidence to deliver that experience.”

With 420 guides already certified, the remaining batches are expected to complete their training by early next year.

Street Vendors and Taxi Drivers Join the Mission

The government’s skill drive doesn’t stop with traditional service providers. For street vendors and taxi drivers, the training focuses on cleanliness, etiquette, and customer interaction. Rajesh Kumar, a taxi driver who recently attended the program, shared, “Earlier, we just focused on getting passengers from point A to B. Now, I’ve learned how to enhance their journey by sharing local insights and keeping my car spotless.”

Officials confirmed that 250 vendors and 120 drivers have completed the training so far, with more to follow.

Economic Gains and Job Creation

Kumbh Mela Nodal Offiver Vijay Anand said that the total financial transactions at the mela site are anticipated to be significantly higher, ranging between Rs 2 lakh crore and Rs 3 lakh crore.

"The earnings of small-scale vendors, such as tempo operators, rickshaw pullers, flower sellers at temple sites, those selling memorabilia, boat operators, and even hotels, will contribute significantly to the local economy. The entire ecosystem around the Kumbh Mela is expected to experience a massive economic boom," he added.

The Mahakumbh is not just a religious affair; it is an economic engine. The Yogi government’s Tourism Policy-2022, which aims to attract ?20,000 crore in investments and create 10 lakh jobs, is closely tied to this event. By connecting grassroots workers with economic opportunities, the state hopes to create an inclusive growth model.

“This is a watershed moment for tourism in Uttar Pradesh,” said Avanish Awasthi, advisor to the chief minister. “The Mahakumbh will not only bring global attention to Prayagraj but also empower our people through sustainable livelihoods.”

Beyond Mahakumbh: A Vision for UP Tourism

The Yogi government’s vision goes beyond the Mahakumbh. From developing infrastructure to launching skill training programs, these initiatives are designed to position Uttar Pradesh as the epicenter of religious and cultural tourism in India.

“The Mahakumbh is a stepping stone,” Aparajita Singh said. “It reflects our broader goal to make Uttar Pradesh synonymous with world-class tourism experiences.”

As the countdown to Mahakumbh 2025 begins, Uttar Pradesh is not just preparing for an event; it is setting the stage for a legacy that could redefine its tourism industry for generations.