A comprehensive analysis of the multifaceted significance of the Kumbh mela in India: An emerging epicenter of global Hindu religious tourism

The Kumbh Mela holds a unique position in the global landscape of religious tourism. In 2019, approximately 240 million pilgrims worldwide attended the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, India. In recent years, the Kumbh Mela has also emerged as a major tourism event, attracting visitors not only for its spiritual significance but also for its cultural, social, and economic appeal. Rooted in ancient mythology and Hindu scriptures, the Kumbh Mela is a sacred pilgrimage that draws millions of devotees from around the world. This study delves into the transformative nature of the Kumbh Mela, evolving beyond its religious roots into a significant epicenter of global Hindu religious tourism. It also focuses on the historical, cultural, socio-economic, and religious dimensions of the Kumbh Mela, examining its significance as a spiritual pilgrimage, a cultural phenomenon, and a major tourism event