Key Points:
- Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of late Steve Jobs, has embraced Hinduism with the name ‘Kamala’ and will participate in the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj.
- She will stay at her guru Swami Kailashananda’s camp, don saffron attire, and participate in key rituals, including Shahi Snan on January 14 and January 29.
- The Maha Kumbh 2025, the largest gathering of humanity, expects 400 million pilgrims, with a state budget of ₹7,000 crore for security and logistics.
- The event will feature cutting-edge technology like AI and chatbots, alongside a multi-layered security system.
Prayagraj: The world’s largest spiritual gathering, the Maha Kumbh 2025, is set to witness a unique blend of tradition and modernity as Laurene Powell Jobs, the billionaire philanthropist and wife of late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, embraces Hinduism with the name ‘Kamala’ and prepares to immerse herself in its sacred rituals.
Laurene, who has shown a deep interest in Sanatan Dharma, will arrive in Prayagraj on January 13. Staying at the camp of her guru Swami Kailashananda, the Mahamandaleshwar of Niranjani Akhara, she will participate in key rituals until January 29, including the Shahi Snan (royal bath) on Makar Sankranti (January 14) and Mauni Amavasya (January 29).
A Personal Spiritual Journey
Swami Kailashananda revealed that Laurene had been given the name ‘Kamala’ after being inducted into her guru’s Gotra, symbolizing her spiritual rebirth. Describing Laurene as a daughter, he said, “She treats me as a father, and I give her the same love. This is her second visit to India, and she has a deep connection to Hindu traditions.”
Laurene was earlier seen offering prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. While unable to touch the holy Shivling, she participated in the rituals from outside, following temple traditions for non-Hindus.
Maha Kumbh 2025: A Grand Affair
Preparations are in full swing for the 45-day-long festival from January 13 to February 26, expected to attract 400 million pilgrims to Prayagraj. With a state budget of ₹7,000 crore, this year’s Kumbh will blend ancient practices with modern advancements, including artificial intelligence and chatbots for crowd management and real-time assistance.
The UP Police have implemented a multi-layered security system, ensuring the safety of pilgrims and high-profile participants like Laurene.
Sacred Rituals and Kalpavas
Laurene will also take part in Kalpavas, an ancient Hindu tradition of living a simple life on the riverbanks, practicing meditation, and performing austerities from Paush Purnima to Maghi Purnima. Her participation highlights the global appeal of the Kumbh Mela, which draws spiritual seekers, VIPs, saints, and devotees alike.
Key bathing dates for the Kumbh include:
- Makar Sankranti (January 14)
- Mauni Amavasya (January 29)
- Basant Panchami (February 3)
A Symbol of Spiritual Unity
Laurene’s presence at the Maha Kumbh underscores the event’s reputation as a global spiritual hub. With traditions spanning millennia, the Kumbh continues to unite humanity under the banner of faith and self-discovery, attracting both commoners and global figures.
As preparations near completion, the Maha Kumbh 2025 promises to be an unforgettable confluence of devotion, spirituality, and modernity, showcasing the timeless allure of India’s cultural heritage.
