Spiritual tourism startup My Tirth India is ceasing operations due to financial difficulties, according to founder Indraneel Dasgupta.
Dasgupta explained that the company has struggled with a lack of funds following the passing of its primary shareholder and mentor, Subrata Roy, the founder of Sahara India Pariwar.
The startup had secured nearly $1 million in funding from the late Subrata Roy.
Founder shares announcement
“At My Tirth India, we aimed to restore the joy of spiritual tourism. Many cities’ economies are closely tied to temples, with hotels, travel, food, and cultural activities all centered around them,” said Indraneel Dasgupta.
“However, it is this experience that we have neglected the most. Over the past few years, My Tirth India has connected with temples, priests, hotels, travel agents, astrologers, and wellness centers across the country, aiming to provide a holistic experience for every pilgrim. We also sought to create employment opportunities in cities, villages, and towns, encouraging people to rediscover their culture, traditions, and heritage. Yet, it is with deep sadness that we must now close the office due to financial constraints following the unfortunate passing of our primary shareholder and mentor.”
“We aimed to make a difference in people’s lives while honoring our forefathers, who, despite facing oppression, never abandoned their roots and culture. However, given the current situation—operating with a minimal staff working without pay, lacking an office, and managing from our homes—we have no option but to halt operations, at least temporarily, due to a lack of funds. This pain will stay with me for the rest of my life,” he added.
My Tirth India offerings
Founded in 2019, My Tirth India offered tours to India’s major religious sites by bringing together temples, priests, hotels, travel agents, astrologers, and services related to Ayurveda and yoga on a single platform.
The startup also introduced spiritual membership programs for travelers and set up spiritual showrooms in cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, Kolkata, and Noida. These showrooms provided products such as incense sticks, dhoop, puja supplies, havan materials, and religious idols.