Boatman’s ₹30 Crore Kumbh Mela Earnings Lead to ₹12.8 Crore Tax Notice

A boatman’s family from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, who earned a staggering ₹30 crore by ferrying pilgrims during the recent Maha Kumbh Mela, has been served an income tax notice demanding ₹12.8 crore in taxes. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath revealed this information in the state assembly, sparking widespread discussions online.

The family, led by boatman Pintu Mahara from Arail village, operated around 130 boats for 45 days at the Triveni Sangam during the religious festival. The surge in demand allowed them to amass the substantial earnings, a significant increase from their usual income.

However, the Income Tax Department has now issued a notice under Sections 4 and 68 of the Income Tax Act, 1961, directing the family to pay ₹12.8 crore in taxes. This unexpected development has reportedly left the family in distress.

SEBI research analyst A.K. Mandhan commented on the issue via social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating that while Pintu Mahara earned a significant amount, he is now facing an overwhelming financial burden. Mandhan explained that, during normal times, the family struggled to earn ₹15,000 per month, with each boat ride generating just ₹500 and only one or two rides occurring daily. However, due to the massive crowds at the Kumbh Mela, they managed to earn around ₹1,000 per ride, leading to the unprecedented earnings.

Mandhan further noted that Mahara, unaware of tax slabs and regulations, is now required to pay an enormous tax amount, turning what seemed like a financial windfall into a major challenge.