The 'Maha' impact | Maha Kumbh generates Rs 3 lakh crore business: CAIT

The Maha Kumbh is boosting local trade with a surge in demand for Maha Kumbh-themed products. (Image: PTI)

The Maha Kumbh festival in the holy city of Prayagraj is estimated to have generated business of over Rs 3 lakh crore (USD 360 billion) through goods and services, making it one of the biggest economic events in India till date.

Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Secretary General and Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal said that this milestone highlights the deep connection between faith and econonomy, ANI reported.

Maha Kumbh, which takes place once every 144 years, is being held in Prayagraj. It began on January 13 and will continue till February 26 and has witnessed the arrivals of millions of devotees over the weeks.

The Maha Kumbh is boosting local trade with a surge in demand for Maha Kumbh-themed products like diaries, calendars, jute bags, and stationery. Sales are reported to have increased due to meticulous branding, ANI reported.

Khandelwal mentioned that before the commencement of the Maha Kumbh, initial estimates projected the arrival of 40 crore people and business transactions worth around Rs 2 lakh crore. However, due to the unprecedented enthusiasm across the country, it is now expected that nearly 60 crore people will participate in the Maha Kumbh by February 26, leading to a massive business turnover exceeding Rs 3 lakh crore.

This, he said, has provided a significant boost to Uttar Pradesh's economy and created new business opportunities, ANI reported.

Highlighting the economic impact of the Maha Kumbh, Khandelwal noted that several business sectors have witnessed large-scale economic activities, including hospitality and accommodation; food and beverage sector; transport and logistics; religious attire; puja samagri, and handicrafts, textiles, apparel and other consumer goods; healthcare and wellness services; media, advertising and entertainment; civic services; telecom, mobile, AI-based technology, CCTV cameras, and other equipment.

Khandelwal further pointed out that the economic benefits of Maha Kumbh are not limited to Prayagraj. Cities and towns within a 150 km radius have also experienced a significant business surge, strengthening local economies.

Additionally, Ayodhya, Varanasi, and other religious destinations have seen an increase in pilgrim visits, as devotees travel for the darshan and worship of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, Lord Shiva in Varanasi, and others in the nearby districts. This has further fueled massive economic activities in these areas.

The Delhi MP said Maha Kumbh is expected to positively shape India's trade, commerce, and cultural landscape, setting a new economic benchmark for years, ANI reported.

The Uttar Pradesh government has spent Rs 7500 crore for the improvement of Prayagraj's infrastructure - flyovers, roads, and underpasses The Rs 7500 crore spending included Rs 1500 crore that was earmarked specifically for Maha Kumbh arrangements.