At the grand Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious festival currently taking place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, you will find people from every walk of life. This iconic gathering draws millions of devotees who come to take a holy dip at the Sangam, where the rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati meet.
Among the many fascinating sights at the Maha Kumbh, the Babas, sages and ascetics, are a unique highlight. From Naga Babas to Aghori Sadhus, and some of the most revered spiritual leaders, their presence adds a mystical charm to the festival. However, one particular Baba has caught everyone’s attention this year: an ‘IITian Baba’.
The Story of IITian Baba
Abhay Singh, a former aerospace engineering student from IIT Bombay, has traded his life in science for a journey into spirituality. In an interview with CNN News18, Singh shared his story, leaving the interviewer and audience stunned.
The conversation began with a simple observation. “You speak well, you sound educated,” the interviewer remarked. To this, Singh calmly revealed his background, saying he had studied aerospace engineering at IIT Bombay.
The revelation left the interviewer momentarily speechless. When he finally asked how Singh reached this point in life, the sage smiled and said: (Ye avastha toh sabse best avastha hai) This stage is the best stage. If you keep pursuing knowledge, this is where it leads you.
From Engineering to Enlightenment
Singh shared that he was born in Haryana and spent four years studying aerospace engineering at IIT Bombay. Later, he moved into the arts and completed a Master’s in Design. Even during his engineering days, he was deeply curious about life’s purpose, often attending philosophy courses on topics like Postmodernism, Socrates, and Plato.
“It’s about understanding the meaning of life,” he explained, adding that his quest for deeper knowledge eventually led him to spirituality.
The interview quickly went viral, sparking widespread admiration for Singh’s choices. Many praised him for prioritising knowledge and spiritual growth over material pursuits.
