Prayagraj: The world’s largest spiritual gathering, Mahakumbh 2025, is set to witness a historic convergence of global personalities, including Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. Swami Kailashnand Ji Maharaj confirmed Powell Jobs’ participation, revealing that she has been given the Hindu name ‘Kamala.’ She will attend the event to meditate and observe Kalpvas, a spiritual practice involving simplicity, austerity, and devotion. Her presence adds an international dimension to this sacred Indian tradition.
The Mahakumbh will commence on January 13, 2025, and conclude on February 26, 2025, drawing millions of devotees and dignitaries from around the globe. Laurene Powell Jobs, inspired by India’s rich spiritual legacy, will spend 17 days engaging in meditative practices and immersing herself in the religious fervor of the Kumbh Mela.
Prominent Personalities Expected to Attend
The Kumbh Mela has always been a magnet for influential figures. Apart from Powell Jobs, the lineup for Mahakumbh 2025 includes:
- Sudha Murthy, philanthropist and author
- Savitri Jindal, businesswoman
- Hema Malini, veteran actress
- Vivek Oberoi, Bollywood actor
- Naveen Jindal, industrialist
- Gopichand Ahuja, businessman
- Anup Jalota, ghazal singer
- Rakhi Sawant, actress and entertainer
Steve Jobs and India’s Spiritual Influence
Steve Jobs, known for revolutionizing the tech world with Apple, had a deep connection with India. In the mid-1970s, Jobs visited Neem Karoli Baba’s ashram in Kainchi, Uttarakhand, seeking spiritual enlightenment during a phase of personal and professional turmoil. Although Neem Karoli Baba had passed away in 1973, Jobs’ time at the ashram profoundly influenced his vision of simplicity, which became the cornerstone of Apple’s design philosophy.
Jobs’ reverence for India’s spiritual wisdom extended to his friends. Mark Zuckerberg, co-founder of Facebook, shared that Jobs recommended visiting the ashram to reconnect with Facebook’s mission.
Kala Kumbh: A Cultural Showcase
Ahead of Mahakumbh 2025, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated Kala Kumbh, a cultural exhibition organized by the state’s Culture Department in Prayagraj. Spanning five acres, Kala Kumbh features:
- Photographs and replicas tracing the history of Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya
- Displays of protected heritage sites, manuscripts, and archaeological artefacts
- A stage for cultural performances and immersive exhibitions
The exhibit aims to celebrate the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh while highlighting the significance of past Kumbh gatherings.
The Global Appeal of Indian Spirituality
India’s spiritual magnetism has drawn countless global figures. Laurene Powell Jobs’ participation in Mahakumbh 2025 underscores the continued fascination of the world’s most prominent leaders with the country’s timeless traditions. Her journey of spiritual exploration at this grand event will stand as a testament to the enduring influence of India’s cultural and spiritual legacy.
