Published Paper Details:

This study explores the intricate relationship between religious tourism and local society through a sociological lens, focusing on the social, cultural, and economic implications of pilgrimage-driven mobility. The primary purpose of this research is to analyze how the influx of religious tourists influences the social structures, collective identity, and economic patterns of host communities. Using secondary data sources such as government tourism reports (Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India), Census 2011 data, academic books, and peer-reviewed journal articles, the study offers an interpretative analysis grounded in sociological theory. Key themes include social change (transformation in gender roles, caste dynamics, and occupational shifts), identity construction (how local communities reshape or reaffirm cultural identity in response to external religious influences), and economic impact (growth in informal sectors, local entrepreneurship, and commodification of faith). The study draws on conceptual frameworks from Emile Durkheim (religion as social solidarity), Max Weber (religious ethics and economy), and Pierre Bourdieu (symbolic capital in religious settings). Findings indicate that while religious tourism stimulates local economies and fosters infrastructure development, it also leads to cultural commodification, environmental strain, and social stratification. This sociological analysis highlights the need for inclusive tourism policies that balance economic growth with cultural preservation and community well-being.