Why Did ‘IIT Baba’ Abhay Singh Disappear From Maha Kumbh?
In a dramatic turn of events, Abhay Singh, widely recognized as the ‘IITian Baba,’ recently grabbed headlines after his mysterious disappearance from the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Abhay Singh, an IIT Bombay graduate and former aerospace engineer, traded a lucrative career in Canada for a spiritual life.
His transformative journey captivated many, but his abrupt exit from the event left followers and family members concerned, sparking numerous speculations.
The Rise of IIT Baba: A Journey From Science to Spirituality
Abhay Singh hails from Haryana and was once a promising student at IIT Bombay, where he pursued aerospace engineering. Despite earning a stable and enviable income of approximately ₹3 lakh per month in Canada, Singh struggled with inner dissatisfaction.
His life took a pivotal turn when he began exploring deeper philosophical questions and delved into spirituality, seeking the meaning of life beyond material success.
Singh didn’t stop at engineering. He pursued a Master’s in Design, nurtured a love for photography, and studied the philosophies of Socrates and Plato. In his own words, “You will keep searching for the meaning of life. I used to find that in engineering but never found my answers.” This longing for purpose led him to Maha Kumbh and the Shri Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, where he was recognized as a saint.
Media Spotlight and Rising Popularity
The Maha Kumbh Mela served as a platform for Singh to showcase his unique story. Dubbed as ‘IIT Baba’ by media outlets, his unconventional journey attracted national attention. His articulate interviews and social media presence resonated with younger audiences, earning him a significant online following.
However, Singh’s popularity also brought challenges. Traditionally, saints within the Juna Akhara adhere to strict protocols regarding media interactions. Singh’s growing fame reportedly irked senior saints, who viewed his visibility as a breach of tradition. This tension, compounded by alleged internal disputes, set the stage for controversy.
The Disappearance and Speculations
Reports of Abhay Singh’s sudden disappearance from the Maha Kumbh surfaced, leading to widespread concern. While some ashram members speculated that Singh had succumbed to mental stress caused by media scrutiny, others alleged he was facing issues related to drug abuse. Singh, however, refuted these claims, calling them baseless rumors.
In an interview with Aaj Tak, Singh clarified the situation, stating, “The operators of the Madi Ashram asked me to leave at night.
They think I’ve become famous and might expose something about them, so they claim I’ve gone for secret meditation.” Singh also accused the Akhara authorities of spreading false narratives to undermine his credibility.
The Juna Akhara Controversy
The Juna Akhara, one of the largest and most prestigious monastic orders in India, played a central role in the controversy. Singh’s rapid rise to fame reportedly caused friction within the Akhara, as senior saints traditionally hold authority over external interactions. Singh’s direct engagement with the media was seen as a violation of this hierarchy, fueling tensions among the order’s leadership.
Seer Someshwar Puri, a prominent figure within the Akhara, added to the controversy by claiming Singh was his disciple. Singh vehemently denied this, stating, “Who has the authority to decide my mental health? Show me the certificate.” His remarks underscored the growing divide between him and the Akhara’s leadership.
Family’s Concerns and Emotional Pleas
Amid the unfolding drama, Singh’s family expressed deep concern for his well-being. His father, Karan Singh, a former head of the Jhajjar Bar Association, reportedly traveled to the Ashram to search for him.
However, by the time they arrived, Singh had already left for an undisclosed location. Singh’s decision to distance himself from his family for six months further compounded their worry.
Karan Singh later shared with local media that his son’s decision to embrace spirituality was unexpected but respected. However, the family hoped for clarity regarding his current circumstances, especially given the public attention surrounding his disappearance.
Refuting Allegations of Drug Abuse and Mental Stress
One of the most controversial aspects of Singh’s disappearance involved allegations of drug abuse and mental instability. These claims were reportedly circulated by members of the Ashram, who suggested Singh was struggling to cope with his newfound fame. Singh categorically denied these accusations, calling them defamatory and unsubstantiated.
“I have no history of drug use or mental stress. This is all propaganda to defame me,” he asserted during a televised interview. Singh further emphasized that his departure was not voluntary but the result of political maneuvering within the Akhara.
The Search for Answers: Where Is IIT Baba Now?
Despite the controversy, Singh has reassured his followers that he remains at the Maha Kumbh, albeit away from the public eye. He hinted that his decision to retreat was influenced by internal conflicts within the Akhara and not by personal challenges. Singh’s followers continue to await updates on his next steps, with many rallying behind him on social media platforms.
The Bigger Picture: A Reflection on Modern Spirituality
The story of Abhay Singh raises important questions about the intersection of spirituality, modernity, and media. Singh’s journey from an IIT graduate to a saint challenges traditional narratives of success, offering a fresh perspective on life’s purpose.
However, his experience also highlights the challenges faced by spiritual leaders in the age of social media, where popularity can sometimes conflict with established norms.
For Singh, the road ahead remains uncertain. Whether he will reconcile with the Juna Akhara or chart his own spiritual path remains to be seen. Regardless of the outcome, his story serves as a testament to the power of self-discovery and the complexities of embracing an unconventional life.
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