I agree with the rave reviews you have vaxed eloquent about the holy city of Allahabad but trust off late, the town looks to be a part of marathan of Globalization.
Even I am a native of this city as comes from a defence background thus hardly stayed there much but my recent visit to the town witnessed numerous modifications within the city and new shopping complexes, malls, Cine-plexes and business centres have sprung up from no where and at this point of time almost every bank has opened its offices there.
Even though there the commercial growth seems to be restricted within the jurisdiction of areas like Civil Lines, Chowk and Katra but still, the volume of changes; and that too immaculate ones was a real delight.
According to a recent survey by Times Of India, it is the best place for retired people, in terms of Pollution, Cleanliness (Allahabad Station is still the best across Uttar Pradesh), Attitude, Violence and Crime, but there is no doubt that it is on its track towards fast growth and getting a touch of Globalization. It will take some time for the youths of the town to look for other options apart from IAS, PCS, PMT and Engg as you may find aspirants ranging from late 20’s to mid 30’s preparing for such exams from the last 10-12 odd years and are still hopefull. AIR is still the most loved music channel and they are into this coccoon and thus may take a while to get out of it.