The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, set to host over 40 crore devotees in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, has prompted banks and fintech companies to enhance financial infrastructure and promote digital payment adoption. The initiatives aim to simplify transactions for attendees and merchants while reducing reliance on cash at the world’s largest public gathering.
Mahakumbh: Prayagraj is preparing for the Maha Kumbh 2025, which attracts many pilgrims. Authorities warn of fraudsters using fake websites and QR codes to deceive visitors. Pilgrims are advised to verify QR codes and use trusted booking websites. Public networks for digital payments should be used cautiously to avoid risks during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025.
Bank of Baroda (BoB), the convenor of the State Level Bankers’ Committee for Uttar Pradesh, has deployed extensive banking facilities at the Mela. The bank has established two full-fledged branches with forex transaction capabilities and installed onsite and mobile ATMs, along with coin vending machines, to cater to diverse customer needs. Business correspondents and BC Sakhis are being deployed across the grounds to assist pilgrims, tourists, and merchants with various banking requirements.
The Mahakumbh festival 2025 in Prayagraj began with over 1.5 crore devotees and is expected to draw 40 crore visitors. Financial and healthcare preparedness is crucial, with unique insurance options available to mitigate risks such as accidents, diseases, and emergencies. The event emphasizes digital transformation, introducing innovative insurance coverage by PhonePe and expert recommendations for comprehensive health and life insurance.
Additionally, BoB has launched its AI-powered Virtual Relationship Manager, Aditi, to handle banking queries and enhance customer support during the event. The bank is actively promoting its UPI-based payment app, BoB e-Pay, offering a complete suite of digital payment solutions.
Fintech payment offers
PhonePe is driving digital payment adoption with its ‘MahaKumbh Ka MahaShagun’ campaign, offering first-time users in Prayagraj flat cashback of Rs 144 on their initial UPI transaction of as little as Re 1. The campaign is complemented by Maha Kumbh-themed QR codes, posters, and banners placed strategically across the venue.
The company’s SmartSpeaker broadcasts special messages to greet users and encourage digital transactions, ensuring ease of payment for devotees and merchants alike.
Airtel Payments Bank has established 10 kiosks at key locations within the Mela grounds, enabling visitors to withdraw cash, transfer funds, and deposit earnings into bank accounts. Merchants can securely deposit daily earnings and are being equipped with QR codes and Soundboxes to facilitate quick, secure, and cashless transactions.
Soundboxes provide instant audio payment confirmations in regional languages, further simplifying operations for merchants and reducing cash-handling risks.
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