Prayagraj, Dec 7 : The upcoming Maha Kumbh, slated to be held in January 2025 on the sacred banks of the Triveni Sangam, is shaping up to be more than just a spiritual gathering. This iconic event is set to provide a transformative opportunity for rural women, especially those associated with self-help groups under the State Livelihood Mission. These women will not only showcase their products but will also gain valuable employment through specially allocated stalls and shops in the Kumbh area.
A Stage for Rural Entrepreneurs
The Kumbh Mela has long been a hub for millions of pilgrims and visitors who gather for spiritual solace and cultural exploration. Recognizing the economic potential of this massive congregation, the State Livelihood Mission has devised a plan to include rural women in its workforce. Deputy Commissioner of NRLM, Rajeev Kumar Singh, shared that five canteens within the Kumbh fairgrounds will be operated by these women. Additionally, proposals are underway to allocate 10 shops in every sector of the fair to self-help group members. Furthermore, over 40 stalls in the Saras Haat, a crafts and goods bazaar, are being requested for these women, aiming to directly or indirectly benefit more than 5,000 individuals.
Branding Through Innovation
The products created by these women are poised to be both functional and emblematic of Maha Kumbh’s grandeur. Special items like mufflers and scarves featuring the Maha Kumbh logo and slogans are being crafted to help visitors combat the cold while serving as meaningful keepsakes. Neha Nishad, a member of the Eklavya Livelihood Women’s Group, explained how her team is meticulously preparing these products, which include selfie caps designed for the youth—a blend of practicality and style.
Even traditional offerings such as scarves in the prasadam baskets will carry the Kumbh branding, amplifying its visibility from bustling cities to the remotest villages. This thoughtful integration of local craftsmanship and event promotion showcases how Maha Kumbh is fostering inclusivity and creativity.
Millets Take Center Stage
As part of Uttar Pradesh’s ongoing efforts to promote millet cultivation and consumption, known locally as Shri Anna, the Maha Kumbh will feature dedicated counters for millet-based products. The State Livelihood Mission has announced plans to establish a cafeteria and five canteens serving snacks and meals made from millets such as barley, jowar, and bajra, sourced directly from local farmers.
Chinta Devi, Chairperson of the Nari Shakti Prerna Sankul Samiti, highlighted the efforts of her group in preparing a variety of millet-based products, including traditional jaggery-infused delicacies, for the fair’s visitors. This initiative not only supports sustainable farming but also introduces pilgrims and tourists to the nutritional benefits of millets.
A Celebration of Empowerment
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is not just about spiritual devotion—it is also a celebration of empowerment and inclusivity. By offering rural women a platform to showcase their skills, connect with a larger audience, and gain financial independence, the event is setting a precedent for socio-economic upliftment.
“This Maha Kumbh is an inspiring example of how spiritual and cultural gatherings can double as avenues for community-driven progress,” said Chinta Devi. “It is heartening to see women contributing meaningfully to such a grand event.”
As the countdown to the Maha Kumbh begins, its role as a catalyst for change—empowering rural women, promoting traditional practices, and encouraging eco-friendly products—promises to make the event a landmark in the journey towards a more inclusive and sustainable society.
