A boatman named Pintu Mahara from Prayagraj earned ₹30 crore during the Mahakumbh festival. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised his success. Mahara said he worked hard for months to prepare for the event.
Mahara was inspired by the 2019 Ardh Kumbh, where boatmen made a lot of money. Expecting 70 crore devotees at the Mahakumbh, he took a big risk. He took loans and mortgaged family jewelry to build 70 boats.
His journey was not easy. His father had passed away, and the family struggled financially. He worked hard for six months to prepare the boats.
A team effort
Mahara employed over 300 people to help devotees take boat rides and have a smooth experience at the holy river Ganga. His team included 250 boatmen and his brothers.
Despite falling sick at times, his team remained committed. They helped rich and poor, young and old, and even those with disabilities. Mahara credited Ganga Maiyya for his success.
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Some people criticized the high earnings of boatmen, saying they were being exploited. However, Mahara rejected these claims. He said, "We worked hard and earned well. The opposition can say anything."
His story is an example of determination and smart planning, leading to a life-changing success.