TechCrunch Startup News Sri Mandir keeps investors hooked as digital devotion grows
Jul 3, 2025
AppsForBharat has raised $20 million for its devotional app, Sri Mandir, highlighting booming investor interest. The app, which allows users to engage in online prayers and offerings, boasts over 40 million downloads. The discussion delves into the economic impact of the Hindu temple economy on India's GDP. Additionally, it explores the rise of religious tech startups, showcasing how they blend culture and modern technology while planning expansions in temple towns. AI-driven features aim to enhance user engagement and drive future growth.
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India's Massive Temple Economy
- India's Hindu temple economy is worth about $40 billion, contributing nearly 2.3% of the nation's GDP.
- Despite this, temple services remain largely offline and fragmented, presenting a digital opportunity.
Digital Hindu Devotion Surges
- Sri Mandir app has grown to over 40 million downloads and 3.5 million monthly active users.
- The app bridges traditional devotion to digital, enabling 1.2 million online prayers across 70+ temples in 12 months.
Strong Revenue from Indian Diaspora
- The Indian diaspora generates 20% of Sri Mandir's revenue with significantly higher average spend per user.
- The app's registered diaspora users outside India grow 15% quarterly, signaling strong global engagement.