Media reports Russians spending on occult services as much on groceries in 2024

(MENAFN) In 2024, Russians are spending nearly as much on "occult services" as they do on groceries, according to a report from the newspaper MK. The market for mystical services such as astrology, numerology, and fortune telling grew by 20% last year, and the industry is expected to see further expansion. Internet traffic to sites offering astrological forecasts and other supernatural services rose by 38%. The total market for occult services in Russia has reached an estimated 2.4 trillion rubles ($24 billion), roughly the same amount as the nation's total grocery expenditure.

Despite the growth of the psychology sector, which competes with occult services, the supernatural market remains 20 times larger. A survey by The Russian Public Opinion Research Center revealed that 25% of Russians believe in esotericism, with 60% having consulted such specialists at least once.

Popular occult services include “chakra cleansing” (around 15,000 rubles or $150) and “negativity removal,” with some even seeking “supernatural” assistance for real estate transactions, which can cost up to 1% of the deal's value.

Russian MP Vitaly Milonov has condemned these practices, calling them “satanic rituals,” and proposed harsh penalties for those involved in such activities without religious organization status.

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