RNS: Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is set to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela, which will begin on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Powell Jobs’ involvement in this iconic Hindu festival underscores the universal significance of the Mela, attracting people from all corners of the globe.
As part of her spiritual journey, Powell Jobs will observe the age-old practice of Kalpvas, a month-long period of austerity and devotion associated with the Kumbh Mela. Kalpvasis, as participants are known, commit to spiritual discipline by living in temporary shelters near the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. During this time, they engage in daily rituals including holy dips in the Sangam’s waters, spiritual discourses, and devotional music—practices aimed at inner purification and spiritual growth.
Powell Jobs is expected to stay at the camp of Swami Kailashananda, Mahamandaleshwar of the Niranjani Akhara, where she will immerse herself in the religious and cultural traditions that define this sacred event. Her stay will last until January 29, 2025.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of Hinduism’s largest and most significant gatherings, draws millions of devotees, saints, and spiritual seekers from around the world. The waters of the Sangam are believed to purify sins and offer blessings, embodying the essence of the Mela, where participants devote themselves to prayer, meditation, and communal worship.
Powell Jobs’ participation highlights the Kumbh Mela’s enduring global relevance, showcasing how this centuries-old tradition continues to inspire individuals seeking spiritual renewal and connection. The 2025 edition of the Mela, running from January 13 to February 29, is expected to feature an array of religious activities, cultural programs, and enhanced infrastructure to accommodate the expected influx of pilgrims.
