The Maha Kumbh 2025 is proving to be a golden opportunity for artisans nationwide. This grand event, held at the confluence in Prayagraj, features an impressive exhibition of 'One District, One Product' i.e. ODOP, spread over 6000 square meters. Items such as carpets, zari-zardosi, Firozabad glass, Varanasi wooden toys, and other handicraft products are becoming major attractions for devotees.

In 2019, the Kumbh Mela generated a business worth Rs.4.30 crore, and this time the business is expected to reach up to Rs.35 crore. Flipkart has also set up a stall at the Maha Kumbh, providing entrepreneurs with the opportunity to sell their products on their platform for free. The Flipkart stall is witnessing a huge crowd of buyers and visitors.

Artisans from Kashi have presented products at the exhibition, including wooden toys, Banarasi brocade, metal repoussé, and metal casting. Geographical Indication expert Dr Rajnikant mentioned that 75 GI products from Uttar Pradesh are being showcased under the ODOP scheme, of which 34 products are from the Kashi region itself. These include red chillies from Varanasi, Banarasi sarees, Surkha guava, Amla from Pratapgarh, brass utensils from Mirzapur, and terracotta items from Gorakhpur. Carpets from Kushinagar, glass toys and utensils from Firozabad are also key attractions at the exhibition. Efforts are being made to bring unique creations such as Banarasi Thandai, Lal Peda, Banarasi Tabla, and wall paintings to global attention.

This ODOP initiative is an unprecedented effort to promote the handicrafts and cottage industries. Maha Kumbh is not only strengthening spiritual and cultural identity but has also become a vast platform for entrepreneurs. People from all over the world are visiting, admiring, and purchasing the products of the artisans.