OYO CEO Ritesh Agarwal shares how Mahakumbh gave him a $2 billion business idea

OYO CEO Ritesh Agarwal recently visited the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj with his son, Aryan. Agarwal shared a video of their boat ride on social media, reflecting on his first visit over two decades ago. In a video recorded during a boat ride with his son, he spoke about his personal connection with the event, often called the world’s largest gathering.

"Standing at Mahakumbh with Ary for the first time, I was overwhelmed by a flood of memories from my own first visit. I remember feeling so small, yet part of something so much bigger. Today, I stood beside him, hoping he finds his own answers, his own faith, and his own path. This isn’t just a tradition; it’s a legacy. A legacy of belief, hope, and the courage to dream,” Agarwal wrote.

OYO CEO Ritesh Agarwal Remembers first visit over two decades ago

Agarwal recalled attending the Kumbh Mela more than 20 years ago and shared his emotions about visiting again, this time with his son. “Standing at Mahakumbh with Ary for the first time, I was overwhelmed by a flood of memories from my own first visit. I remember feeling so small, yet part of something so much bigger. Today, I stood beside him, hoping he finds his own answers, his own faith, and his own path. This isn’t just a tradition; it’s a legacy. A legacy of belief, hope, and the courage to dream,” he wrote in the caption of his post.

Ritesh Agarwal Social media reactions

His post received several comments from users appreciating his humility and outlook. One user wrote, “Sir why so down to earth.” Another commented, “Sir you are genius and humble. Your guidance always helps us for our entrepreneurship journey. You are such a nice and genuine person I have seen.” Other comments included, “Such a polite person,” and “You are a very humble… down-to-earth person.”

Ritesh Agarwal’s family

Ritesh Agarwal and his wife Geetanshi Sood welcomed their son Aryan in 2023. Announcing the news, he wrote on X, “Our hearts are forever changed. Meet our precious little one - Aryan.” He also reflected on the challenges of entrepreneurship and parenthood, stating, “The sleepless nights spent building OYO were just a warm-up for the sleepless nights of parenthood, and yet, I've never been happier than I am at this very moment! Here's to us, my incredible wife Geet, the bundle of joy Aryan, and to the new chapter we're writing together – filled with love, laughter, and the indescribable happiness that only a little one can bring.”