Published: July 8, 2025, 01:30 AM
Religion and astrology are no longer just ancient traditions in India - they’ve become lifestyle choices, especially for Gen Z. As young Indians dive into spirituality and self-discovery, the country`s spiritual economy has surged to an estimated ₹4.86 lakh crore (USD 58.56 billion) in 2023, growing at nearly 10% annually.
Astrologer and numerologist Sidhharrth S Kumaar, who works with Gurugram-based firm NumroVani, sees this shift up close. He advises over 100 clients each month, mostly aged 24–35, but also teenagers and even children. Many come with questions about love, purpose, and identity.
“One 25-year-old asked me, ‘Why am I here?’” says Kumaar. “When I told him his birth chart showed a path rooted in philosophy and teaching, he broke down - not in despair, but in relief.”
This search for meaning isn’t rare. According to NumroVani’s 2024 study, 51% of young Indians look for astrological insights daily. About 88% read horoscopes weekly, and 75% consult astrology when dealing with matters of the heart.
Apps like AstroTalk, AstroVed, and AstroSure AI are redefining how spiritual guidance is delivered, offering AI-powered horoscopes, matchmaking, and 24/7 consultations. The online astrology market is expected to cross $750 million (₹6,200 crore) by 2025, growing at 14% annually.
The pandemic only intensified this trend - online consultations jumped 20–25% in 2021 alone.
And it’s not just digital. Traditional events are also seeing a youth revival. Over 400 million people attended the most recent Kumbh Mela, with a notable percentage being Gen Z.
Millennials may have buried spirituality under work stress and ambition, but Gen Z is bringing it back - with pride. From incense sticks and affirmations to birth charts and moon rituals, young Indians are blending ancient practices with modern wellness.
“Spirituality isn’t just returning - it’s becoming the next FOMO,” says Vanya Mishra, CEO of AstroSure AI. “People won’t ask if you went out on the weekend - they’ll ask if you cleared your karma.”
Mental health professionals agree. Psychologist Yuvette D’Sa notes that Gen Z is more discerning about religious practices. “They embrace what brings peace but question what doesn’t,” she says.
Social media has made astrology trendier than ever. From zodiac memes to celebrity horoscopes, platforms like Instagram are full of spiritual content. Influencers like Premanand Govind Sharan (27.3 million followers) and ‘Pookie Baba’ aka Aniruddhacharya Maharaj (3.6 million followers) are turning spiritual wisdom into viral content.
Even global stars like Dua Lipa, and Indian icons like Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, have publicly embraced astrology - making it even more aspirational for their young followers.
Kumaar explains that astrology is no longer seen as superstition. “Young people use it to navigate relationships, finances, careers - even health. For many, astrologers are like life coaches,” he says.
Some even schedule business launches around lunar phases or choose accessories like watches based on astrological remedies.
At AstroSure, the AI assistant Agastyaa interacts with thousands of users - more than half of them Gen Z. “They chat late at night, asking about love, future, or just looking for comfort,” says Mishra.
Kumaar adds that astrology offers something rare in today’s world: a judgment-free space. “It’s a mirror that reflects your truth - no filters, no opinions. Just energy.”
As the world gets louder and more chaotic, Gen Z’s message seems clear: turning inward might just be the trend that’s here to stay.
