A remarkable story of entrepreneurial success has emerged from the 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, where Pintu Mahara, a boatman, reportedly earned ₹30 crore by expanding his fleet from 60 to 130 boats. However, this claim has been challenged by opposition parties in Uttar Pradesh, who demand an investigation into the earnings and question whether appropriate taxes were paid.
The Uttar Pradesh government defends the claim, highlighting the economic benefits of the Maha Kumbh for local communities. Pintu Mahara credits his success to the efficient organization of the event by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Leap of Faith
Pintu Mahara’s decision to expand his fleet was driven by his anticipation of a massive influx of pilgrims. Despite initial financial risks, his family supported him, mortgaging their jewellery to secure additional boats. The gamble paid off, with each boat earning significantly during the event.
However, opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party and Congress, have raised questions about the authenticity of the earnings and whether GST and other taxes were paid appropriately. Pintu Mahara himself attributes his success to the government’s efforts in organizing the Maha Kumbh, which attracted millions of devotees.
The economic impact of the Maha Kumbh on local communities is substantial. Boatmen like Pintu Mahara have traditionally played a crucial role in ferrying pilgrims across the Ganges River, but this year’s event saw unprecedented demand.
The Uttar Pradesh government has highlighted the success stories of boatmen, stating that over 13,000 boatmen earned substantial incomes, with many now planning to start new businesses. However, controversy surrounds Pintu Mahara’s past, with allegations of a criminal record, which opposition parties have used to question the government’s narrative.
Background and Impact
The Maha Kumbh has historically been a significant economic event for Uttar Pradesh, benefiting numerous sectors including hospitality and transportation. In 2025, it attracted over 66 crore devotees, transforming the lives of many locals, including boatmen. The event’s economic impact is estimated to be substantial, with the state government claiming that it injected an estimated ₹3.5 lakh crore into Uttar Pradesh’s economy.
This massive influx of funds has created opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs, but it also raises questions about how these benefits are distributed and whether they reach all segments of society.
The controversy surrounding Pintu Mahara’s earnings highlights broader issues of transparency and accountability. While the government celebrates his success as a model of entrepreneurial spirit, opposition parties argue that such claims should be scrutinized to ensure fairness and compliance with tax laws.
This debate underscores the need for balanced economic growth that benefits all stakeholders, from local communities to the state’s economy.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The story of Pintu Mahara and his family underscores the potential for economic growth during large events like the Maha Kumbh. However, it also raises important questions about transparency and equity in such opportunities.
As we celebrate success stories, we must ensure that economic benefits are distributed fairly and that all stakeholders, including the government and local communities, are held accountable for their actions. This includes ensuring that taxes are paid appropriately and that opportunities are accessible to a wide range of people.
Ultimately, the success of events like the Maha Kumbh should be measured not just by the financial gains of a few but by the broader impact on the community. How can we ensure that the economic benefits of large events like the Maha Kumbh are accessible to a wider range of people, fostering greater social and economic harmony?
