Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is currently in India for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, where she has been given the name “Kamala” by her guru, Swami Kailashanand Giri. Her visit comes as a handwritten letter by Steve Jobs from 1974 has been making headlines. The letter, which was recently auctioned by Bonhams for $500,312 (approximately Rs 4.32 crore), offers a rare glimpse into the tech visionary’s spiritual side.
Written just a day before his 19th birthday, the letter is addressed to Jobs’ childhood friend, Tim Brown. In it, he reflects on Zen Buddhism and his desire to visit India for the Kumbh Mela. With a contemplative tone, Jobs writes about the emotional impact of Brown’s earlier correspondence, mentioning, “I cried many times.” He expresses his intention to attend the Kumbh Mela, stating, “I wish to go to India for the Kumbh Mela, which starts in April. I will be leaving sometime in March, not really certain yet.” He signs off the letter with “Shanti, Steve Jobs,” revealing his deep connection to spirituality.
Steve Jobs’ journey to India was deeply influenced by Hinduism and the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba. Although he initially planned to visit the Baba’s ashram in Uttarakhand, he arrived in Nainital to learn that Neem Karoli Baba had passed away the previous year. Jobs chose to stay at the ashram in Kainchi Dham, immersing himself in its spiritual environment. Over seven months, he explored India’s culture and spirituality, an experience that profoundly transformed him. Upon his return to the U.S., his appearance and demeanor were strikingly different—his head was shaved, he wore Indian cotton robes, and his skin was deeply tanned from the sun. He even adopted the orange robes of a Sadhu, symbolizing the lasting impact of his spiritual journey.
Now, decades later, Laurene Powell Jobs is fulfilling one of Steve’s unfulfilled wishes by attending the Maha Kumbh Mela. Despite developing allergies on her second day in Prayagraj, she plans to participate in the sacred ritual of bathing in the Ganga River. Accompanied by a 40-member team, Laurene has been actively engaging in meditation, Kriya Yoga, and Pranayama during her visit. Her participation underscores her respect for Indian traditions and her personal spiritual exploration.
