By Jagriti Motwani
In a world where entertainment, education, and even healthcare have been transformed by technology, spirituality too is undergoing a quiet revolution. What was once rooted in temples and physical rituals is now finding vibrant expression through digital platforms. From virtual darshans to online pujas, tech is becoming the new bridge between the seeker and the sacred.
The convergence of spirituality and technology, once seemingly implausible, is now transforming how people connect with their faith. What began with YouTube videos and social media movements amplifying spiritual discourses to wider audiences has evolved into a dynamic ecosystem. Today, it offers everything from real-time online pujas to virtual temple visits, all just a few taps away on a screen.
A $65-Billion Industry
From being virtually non-existent a decade ago, the religious and spiritual market has blossomed into a $65 billion industry in 2024, with projections to nearly double by 2033, driven largely by India's influence. The pandemic acted as a catalyst for this shift as in-person rituals were restricted, and people turned to digital avenues for solace. What began as a necessity has now evolved into a lifestyle, marking the "Yoga Moment" of spirituality. Today, technology is not just a tool but a transformative force, bringing ancient wisdom into the digital age and redefining the sacred for modern seekers.
One of the most significant developments in this space is the rise of online pujas and rituals. Whether it’s a Satyanarayan Katha, Griha Pravesh, or Navagraha Shanti, individuals can now book personalised rituals conducted by certified priests via video calls. These services often include doorstep delivery of pujan samagri, ensuring a seamless and authentic experience. For Indian diaspora living across the world, away from their hometowns, this model makes it possible to participate in sacred ceremonies without geographical constraints.
Inclusive & Accessible
This digital approach not only upholds tradition but also makes it more inclusive, accessible, and relevant to today’s fast-paced lifestyles. The emotional and spiritual comfort of a ritual is no longer confined by time or place.
Take, for instance, the recent Maha Kumbh Mela, a spiritual gathering of monumental proportions that drew an unparalleled footfall of 450 million devotees, while millions more participated digitally. Streaming platforms broadcast live darshans, and social media buzzed with real-time updates, puja sessions, and shared moments of faith. The Mela even emerged as one of the most searched topics on Google, securing 3.06 crore impressions and 10.5 lakh clicks on Wikipedia articles alone, with a 3.4% click-through rate. This growing online engagement underscores a broader cultural shift: spirituality is no longer confined to rituals or familial traditions and is now streamed, liked, and shared.
Virtual darshans and aartis are becoming a regular part of many households. Through 360-degree live feeds, people can now witness the evening Ganga Aarti in Varanasi or seek blessings at Tirupati, without leaving their homes. This is not just about convenience; it’s about democratizing access to the divine.
A (VR) Step Forward
Emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) are taking things a step further. Imagine meditating inside a Himalayan cave or standing at the foot of Kedarnath, virtually. VR is enabling immersive experiences that deepen one’s spiritual connection, especially for those unable to travel.
As the digital-native generation explores spirituality in its own way, tech is meeting them halfway, with tools that are engaging, intuitive, and powerful. Platforms such as Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Saibaba Shirdi app, et,c lead the charge in this evolution, combining age-old rituals with cutting-edge technology to keep spirituality alive and thriving in the modern world.
Ultimately, this fusion of tradition and technology is not about replacement; it’s about relevance and reach. It’s about ensuring that spirituality doesn’t get left behind in the digital revolution, but instead evolves with it.
The spiritual tech market is leading a revolutionary shift to redefine humanity’s connection to the divine. From live-streamed rituals to immersive VR experiences, technology is breaking barriers of geography and tradition, making spirituality inclusive, accessible, and dynamic. What began as a necessity during the pandemic has grown into a $65 billion global industry, set to double within a decade. This is not just the evolution of faith — it is the rise of a new era where technology will keep transforming the sacred into a boundless, universal experience.
(The author is the founder and promoter of Bhagva)
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