Why Laurene Powell Jobs at the Maha Kumbh Mela

Health Concerns Delay Participation

Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of the late Apple CEO Steve Jobs, was expected to take the holy dip at Triveni Sangam during the first ‘Amrit Snan’ of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj today. However, her participation was delayed due to health concerns, as she is reportedly unwell from allergies, according to her guru Swami Kailashanand Giri.

Comments from Swami Kailashanand

Swami Kailashanand commented, “She will participate in the ritual of taking a dip at the Sangam. Currently, she is resting in my shivir. She has some allergies and is unaccustomed to such a crowded environment. Despite her simplicity, she stayed with us during the pooja. Our tradition is so unique that those unfamiliar with it are naturally drawn to experience it.”

Immersion in Hindu Rituals

Laurene, who arrived in Varanasi earlier, is immersing herself in Hindu rituals and staying at the camp of her guru Swami Kailashanand. During her stay at the Maha Kumbh, she is expected to participate in several rituals and remain in India until January 29.

Adoption of Hindu Name and Tradition

Ahead of this mega religious event, Laurene was given the Hindu name ‘Kamala’ and received the Gotra of her guru. Swami Kailashanand remarked, “We have named her Kamala, and she is like a daughter to us. This is her second visit to India. Everyone is welcome at the Kumbh.”

Participation in Akhara’s Peshwai Ritual

Laurene’s spiritual journey includes her inclusion in the Akhara’s Peshwai ritual. Donning the saffron attire of a sanyasin, she will also participate in the royal dip, known as Shahi Snan, on significant dates including January 14 (Makar Sankranti) and January 29 (Mauni Amavasya).

Observing Kalpvas Tradition

Laurene is among several VIPs, VVIPs, millionaires, seers, and saints attending the Maha Kumbh. During her stay, she will observe ‘Kalpvas,’ an ancient Hindu tradition where devotees, referred to as Kalpwasis, live a life of austerity for a month between Paush Purnima and Maghi Purnima.

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Recently, Laurene was seen offering prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, accompanied by her guru. As per tradition, Laurene observed the Shivling from outside the temple, as non-Hindus are not permitted to touch the holy symbol of Lord Shiva.

Significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela

The Maha Kumbh Mela, held once every four years at one of four locations in India, is one of the most significant religious gatherings globally. This year’s event, spanning from January 13 to February 26, holds special significance as seers claim the celestial permutations and combinations for the occasion occur only once every 144 years. Over 1.65 crore devotees took a holy dip on the first day.

Key Bathing Rituals

The primary bathing rituals of the Kumbh, known as Shahi Snan, are scheduled for January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).

Swami Kailashanand’s Reflections

Commenting on Laurene’s visit, Swami Kailashanand said, “She is deeply religious and spiritual. She wants to understand and learn about our traditions. She respects me as a father and a guru. Her journey exemplifies how Indian traditions are being embraced by the world.”

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