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Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, arrived at the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on January 13 to participate in the world’s largest religious gathering. However, she developed allergies on her second day at the event and is currently resting at the camp of spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri. Despite this, she intends to take part in the sacred dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, a key ritual in the Kumbh Mela.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is one of the most significant spiritual events in the world. The 2025 gathering, which began in early January, is a Poorna Kumbh, a rare celestial event occurring once every 144 years. The festival will continue until February 26, 2025. This year, Prayagraj’s Triveni Sangam is expected to witness millions of pilgrims from across India and the world. Major bathing dates, including January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), February 3 (Basant Panchami), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri), are the focal points for the sacred dips, with devotees seeking purification and spiritual merit.
Powell Jobs, who is staying at the Niranjini Akhara camp until January 15, will depart for the United States afterward to attend the swearing-in ceremony of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. The Kumbh Mela is organized into segments for different Akhadas, which are groups of ascetics and sadhus. Each Akhada participates in the sacred bathing rituals, with the 13 major Akhadas divided into three groups: Shaivite (Sanyasi), Vaishnav (Bairagi), and Udaseen. The sadhus of these Akhadas take part in the sacred dips in a procession at the Triveni Sangam.
The first Amrit Snan, which will take place on January 14, is expected to attract around 3-4 crore people, marking one of the largest single-day gatherings at the Kumbh. The Triveni Sangam is considered the holiest site for bathing, with the belief that the confluence of these rivers purifies the soul and washes away sins. The gathering is a manifestation of faith, where millions come together to take part in the ancient rituals, including prayers, processions, and the symbolic dip in the sacred waters.
The Maha Kumbh 2025 is not just a religious event but also a manifestation of India’s spiritual heritage, drawing participants from across the globe, including leaders, dignitaries, and common people alike. The event showcases the inclusive nature of Hindu rituals, as the Kumbh serves as a platform for people of all backgrounds to come together in devotion, united by the shared belief in the spiritual power of the holy rivers.