India exploits blockchain technology, non-fungible tokens (NFT) and artificial intelligence (AI) for Maha Kumbh Melatouted as the world’s largest human gathering with over 450 million pilgrims. The six-week long religious event, which started on January 13, is especially special in the year 2025, not only because of its spiritual significance but also because of the rare celestial alignment that only occurs once every 144 years.
The Maha Kumbh Mela is perhaps the only event in the world without an invitation, yet millions of pilgrims gather to celebrate the holy event. With millions of pilgrims participating, the occasion offers Narendra Modi-led government a unique opportunity to reinforce its ideological message and strengthen its political influence. The religious celebration comes at a time when the Asian powerhouse has committed harness emerging technologies as a catalyst for economic growth. This high-profile gathering could be a powerful vehicle for promoting the government’s vision, especially among the many Hindu devotees attending the event.
“Maha Kumbh 2025 will be a divine and digitally advanced event, reflecting the seamless integration of spirituality and technology,” says Ministry of Culture stated.
To begin with, Indian Railways has partnered with Chaincode Consultinga blockchain solutions company, to introduce NFTs for Maha Kumbh 2025. This digital initiative is expected to provide an enhanced experience for participants. With the support of Chaincode Consulting, Indian Railways is implementing a unique NFT platform designed to offer exclusive digital collectibles, access to references and capture moments associated with the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage. Each NFT will serve as a secure, verifiable digital asset, enhancing the user experience while preserving the event’s cultural significance. This platform offers a seamless and modern way for participants to engage with the rich heritage of pilgrimage through ground-breaking technology.
“This initiative represents an important step towards the convergence of traditional practices and modern technology, making the Maha Kumbh experience accessible to a global audience while remaining true to its spiritual roots.” said Sharat Chandra, Founder of EmpowerEdge Ventures and advisor to Chaincode Consulting.
Okto Wallet, a separate self-maintaining crypto wallethas partnered with Chaincode to provide NFT-based tickets. This initiative enables millions of Indian Railways passengers to get personalized NFT versions of their tickets for tent city booking and train travel, stored securely in the Okto Wallet, the company said in an email. These NFTs are expected to act as unique digital mementos of the journey and unlock exclusive discounts at the Maha Kumbh Mela, including savings on tent accommodation and other loyalty benefits.
“Blockchain is revolutionizing various industries by delivering unprecedented trust, transparency and security. By integrating blockchain technology and NFTs, we aim to redefine how travelers interact with their travels and create meaningful, lasting memories. We see this as the start of a wave of blockchain-powered solutions that will simplify processes and build trust across global financial ecosystems, we say. Alok GuptaCEO of Chaincode.
“Web3, at its core, is intended for everyday users, and what better platform to introduce it on this scale than the Maha Kumbh? With 450 million pilgrims expected, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase the power of Web3.” Rohit Jainhead of decentralized finance initiatives at Okto and digital asset exchange CoinDCX, said.
“Through this partnership with Chaincode, we’re not just offering NFTs; we’re empowering travelers to personalize their experiences like never before. This is a milestone moment for Web3 adoption, and we’re excited to make it accessible, impactful and meaningful for all,” Jain added.
In July 2024, CoinDCX, India’s first digital currency unicornlisted The BSV token for trading on its platform, allowing users to have more ways to buy, sell and trade BSV. With CoinDCX’s close to 15 million registered users, the listing marks a significant expansion in the Indian market for BSV and demonstrates its potential and opportunity in the region.
At the festival city Prayagraj in north India, AI powered cameras have been introduced at the world’s largest cultural events, along with drones, anti-drones and tethered drones strategically deployed to enhance surveillance. For the first time, high-tech lost and found registration centers are being established in collaboration with the state police. These centers aim to reunite lost pilgrims with their families through digital registration of missing individuals.
“From high-tech security measures to digital land allotments and immersive virtual reality experiences, the Maha Kumbh 2025 is redefining how devotees connect with their faith and the event’s rich cultural heritage. With extensive preparations spanning infrastructure, security and digital services, the Maha Kumbh is poised to become a model of harmony between tradition and technology”, according to the Ministry of Culture.
Watch: Exploring use cases for blockchain in India
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