Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj Generates Employment, Draws Devotees

The upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, 2025, is not only a religious spectacle but also a significant source of employment for local artisans and laborers. Organized by the Uttar Pradesh government, the event transforms the banks of the ‘Triveni Sangam’—the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—into a bustling temporary city, creating a wealth of opportunities for the region’s workforce.

Artisans from the Kewat community have been instrumental in constructing traditional straw huts for the mela, a process steeped in ancient practices. Uma Shankar Pandey of Geeta Press highlighted the economic impact, stating, “Our work is inspired by the way sages lived in such huts. This provides employment for 150 laborers for two to three months.” Other workers echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the huts offer a vital income source during the mela, employment opportunities wane once the event concludes.

Drone footage of the venue reveals extensive preparations by the state government, including tents and temporary bridges over the sacred rivers to accommodate the millions of devotees expected to visit.

Adding to the religious fervor, the ceremonial Peshwai procession has reached Prayagraj, marking the arrival of sadhus and members of akharas ahead of the grand event. This tradition, symbolizing the power and unity of the sects, serves as a precursor to the Kumbh Mela.

Meanwhile, Ayodhya, another prominent pilgrimage site, is bracing for an influx of devotees traveling from Prayagraj after the Kumbh. The Ayodhya Municipal Corporation has set up shelters, drinking water facilities, and bonfires to help visitors endure the cold weather. Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi noted the significance of the tradition, stating, “According to mythological belief, devotees who bathe in Prayag during the Kumbh often visit Ayodhya for a glimpse of the Saryu River and Ram Lala.”

Special security measures have also been deployed, including mounted police on horseback, to ensure the safety of attendees and smooth crowd management.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, a religious and cultural phenomenon, continues to uphold its dual legacy of spiritual significance and economic empowerment for the people of Uttar Pradesh.