Kalagram Cultural Village to Highlight India's Heritage at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj

The Ministry of Culture is preparing to establish a cultural village named Kalagram in Prayagraj. This initiative aims to highlight India's spiritual and cultural richness during the upcoming Maha Kumbh, according to Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The Maha Kumbh is scheduled from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj.

Shekhawat, who oversees culture and tourism, shared these plans during a media interaction. The cultural village will be located on a 10.24-acre site at Nagvasuki. The Mela authority will also set up a Ganga Pandal with a capacity for 10,000 attendees, featuring performances by celebrities.

Infrastructure and Performances

In addition to the Ganga Pandal, three stage pandals with a capacity of 4,000 each will be constructed at Jhunsi, Nagvasuki, and Areil. An amphitheatre at Kalagram will accommodate 1,000 people. These venues will host performances by Sangeet Natak Akademi awardees, National School of Drama productions, and Zonal Cultural Centre ensembles.

The city will see the construction of 20 stages distributed equally between the Uttar Pradesh government's culture department and the Ministry of Culture. This infrastructure aims to support various cultural showcases throughout the event.

Tourism Growth and Economic Impact

The Ministry of Tourism reported that the sector generated 76.17 million jobs in 2022–2023, up from 69.56 million in 2013–2014. Foreign exchange earnings from tourism reached USD 28.07 billion in 2023, marking a 42.53% increase from USD 19.69 billion in 2014.

Foreign tourist arrivals rose to 95 lakh in 2023 from 77 lakh in 2014, reflecting a growth of 23.96%. Domestic tourist visits surged to 250 crore in 2023, a significant rise of 95.64% from 123 crore in 2014.

Global Rankings and Government Initiatives

India's position in the global Travel and Tourism Development Index improved from 65th in 2014 to 39th in 2024. In terms of tourism's contribution to GDP, India ranked sixth globally in 2022.

Minister Shekhawat highlighted achievements under the Narendra Modi government, emphasizing its commitment to "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" and "Vikas Bhi Virasat Bhi." He noted that reforms under Modi's leadership have benefited Indians socio-economically and intellectually.

The ongoing initiatives by the ministries of culture and tourism reflect this commitment to development while preserving heritage. These efforts aim to enhance India's cultural presence on both national and international stages.