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The recently concluded Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj not only provided a spiritual experience for millions but also transformed the lives of thousands of boatmen.
The grand religious gathering at Triveni Sangam created economic opportunities that enabled boatmen to earn substantial incomes, paving the way for financial independence and new business ventures.
For many boatmen, the riverbanks are their lifelines, and Mahakumbh brought them unprecedented prosperity.
The event saw over 1.5 crore devotees taking a holy dip using boats.
“To facilitate this, more than 4,500 oar boats operated continuously, with each boat requiring at least three boatmen,” said Pappu Lal Nishad, President of the Prayagraj Boatmen Association.
He added, “As a result, more than 13,000 boatmen earned between ₹8 to ₹9 lakh each. Many are now planning to start their own businesses.”
Earnings Drive Social Change
For several boatmen, the earnings from Maha Kumbh fulfilled lifelong aspirations. Sanjeet Kumar Nishad, a boatman from Kila Ghat, struggled to arrange finances for his daughters’ weddings.
However, the event’s financial rewards enabled him to fulfill this responsibility while maintaining his dignity in society.
Similarly, Balwant Nishad, who spent three decades ferrying passengers between Balua Ghat and Kila Ghat without a permanent roof over his head, can now build a house and buy a new boat, thanks to the blessings of Triveni Maa.
While Ardha Kumbh is held every six years and Purna Kumbh every twelve, such a significant economic transformation for the boatmen had never been witnessed before.
This time, the Uttar Pradesh government introduced a game-changing initiative to empower the boatmen community.
Skill Training Empowers Boatmen Community
The Yogi government directed skill training programs to improve the earning potential of boatmen.
Aparajita Singh, Regional Tourism Officer of Prayagraj, revealed that the tourism department collaborated with the Manyavar Kanshiram Tourism Management Institute to train over 1,000 boatmen in disaster management, customer service, and digital payments.
“The impact was remarkable, as trained boatmen saw an increase in their incomes and gained financial stability,” she said.
Maha Kumbh 2025 proved to be more than a religious event. It became a catalyst for economic empowerment, transforming lives and uplifting an entire community.
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