A Prayagraj boatman earned ₹30 crore in 45 days during the Maha Kumbh, with each of his 130 boats generating ₹23 lakh on average, said CM Yogi Adityanath.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, speaking in the state assembly, revealed a remarkable success story from the recently concluded Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. A boatman and his family earned a staggering ₹30 crore in just 45 days. According to the CM, the boatman owned 130 boats, each generating an average profit of ₹23 lakh during the grand religious gathering.
“A boatman’s family, who owned 130 boats, earned a total of ₹30 crore in just 45 days during the Maha Kumbh. This means each boat earned ₹23 lakh over the 45 days, which translates to about ₹50,000–52,000 per day,” said Yogi Adityanath.
Economic Impact of Maha Kumbh
The Chief Minister made these remarks during a discussion on the annual budget for 2025-26 in the legislative assembly. He emphasized the economic significance of the Maha Kumbh, highlighting how the event—attended by people from over 100 countries—transcended caste, region, and religious barriers while blending tradition with progress.
He dismissed allegations of discrimination at the event, asserting that the Maha Kumbh was inclusive and a proud display of Uttar Pradesh’s global capabilities. Despite opposition efforts to spread misinformation, he stated that the faith of devotees remained unwavering, with over 66 crore people taking a holy dip at the Sangam.
“For the opposition, the devotees visiting the Maha Kumbh were merely a vote bank, whereas for us, they represent our heritage and faith. That’s why people trust our government,” he remarked, taking a swipe at the Samajwadi Party (SP).
Maha Kumbh’s Financial Contribution
Yogi Adityanath underscored the massive economic windfall generated by the Maha Kumbh, estimating its total contribution to Uttar Pradesh’s economy at ₹3.5 lakh crore. He detailed the key economic drivers fueling this surge:
- ₹40,000 crore from the hotel industry
- ₹33,000 crore from food and daily essentials
- ₹1.5 lakh crore from transportation
- ₹20,000 crore from religious offerings
- ₹660 crore from donations
- ₹300 crore from toll tax
- ₹66,000 crore from other economic activities
The Maha Kumbh remains not just a spiritual and cultural event but also a major economic force, significantly boosting local businesses and tourism while solidifying Uttar Pradesh’s reputation as a global religious and economic hub.
