The frenzy over the ‘pran pratishtha’ ceremony in Ayodhya boosted trade all over the country, with traders estimating earnings at Rs 1.25 lakh crore with UP contributing Rs 40,000 crore, traders’ body CAIT said on Tuesday.

“The consecration of Shri Ram Mandir has catalysed a flourishing trade network across the country, generating an estimated business of Rs 1.25 lakh crore. Delhi witnessed trade worth approximately Rs 25,000 crore. This economic surge is attributed to the extensive programmes organised by the trading community nationwide,” CAIT said a statement.

CAIT secretary-general Praveen Khandelwal said “this unprecedented financial inflow is the result of faith-driven economy, involving small businesses and entrepreneurs”.

Khandelwal said this is a unique opportunity and called upon entrepreneurs and start-ups to explore novel dimensions in business.

He said the CAIT is planning to conduct a seminar in New Delhi soon to delve into the potential entrepreneurial avenues emerging from this trend.

Under the “Har Shahar Ayodhya-Har Ghar Ayodhya” campaign of the CAIT, more than 30,000 trade bodies organised over 1.5 lakh programmes across the country from January 1 to January 22.

The traders conducted shobha yatras, Ram pheris and devotional musical programmes.

Sale of merchandise, including Ram Mandir models, garlands, door decoration items, flags, caps, bangles, bindi, paintings, pictures of Shri Ram Darbar, pictures of the Ram Mandir reached unprecedented levels.

Sweets and dry fruits used as offerings, clay lamps, brass lamps and fire crackers were popular items during the sale. The trend of gifting Ram Mandir models to guests at weddings has already begun.