Maha Kumbh 2025 to Boost Economy by Rs 2 Lakh Crore, Says UP CM Yogi

Mahakumbh Nagar: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday stated that this year’s Maha Kumbh festival will bring a massive Rs 2 lakh crore boost to the economy, promising that it will be the “largest spiritual event in the world”. He made these remarks during his two-day visit to Maha Kumbh Nagar in Prayagraj, where he inaugurated the Digital Media Centre. CM Yogi asserted that the Maha Kumbh 2025 will blend faith with modernity. He also criticised previous governments for mishandling the event, making it synonymous with "dirt, chaos, and stampedes." 

The Chief Minister said, “This time, the Kumbh will be divine and grander than ever before, with over 40 crore devotees expected to attend.”

He further added that the Prayagraj Kumbh alone would contribute an estimated Rs 2 lakh crore to the country's economy. “We respect faith, and this Maha Kumbh will show how faith can strengthen the economy,” CM Yogi said, taking a dig at the opposition parties, accusing them of not respecting religious faith before his government came to power in 2017.

CM Praises Kumbh Organisers

The Chief Minister also praised the Mela Authority for its efficiency, stating that the Kumbh was being organised within two and a half months. In preparation for the large influx of devotees, Yogi Adityanath announced the addition of 8,000 buses, 3,000 special trains, and 14 new flights to ensure smooth transportation for pilgrims.

Heightened Security

During his visit, the Chief Minister noted that the administration had made tight security arrangements for the event. Special checkposts were set up to inspect vehicles entering from outside, and intelligence agencies had been alerted to monitor any suspicious activities in the area.

Digital Maha Kumbh Experience Centre

One of the highlights of Adityanath’s visit was the inauguration of the Digital Maha Kumbh Experience Centre, a 60,000-square-foot facility designed to showcase the grandeur of the Kumbh digitally. The Centre uses virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), holograms, and LED displays to narrate stories of the Maha Kumbh, the Samudra Manthan, Prayag Mahatam, and the Triveni Sangam.

The Digital Experience Centre is divided into 12 zones, offering an immersive experience of the religious and spiritual significance of the Kumbh. Chief Minister Yogi praised the initiative, which allows devotees to experience the essence of the Kumbh in a modern, technological format.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, among others.