The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is a massive gathering, attracting millions of devotees to the Triveni Sangam for spiritual purification. Amongst the numerous saints and spiritual gurus, one person stands out — a former aerospace engineer from IIT Bombay, now famously known as 'IIT Baba.'
Who is 'IIT Baba'?
Abhey Singh, who belongs to Haryana, has become the latest icon to be looked at during Kumbh Mela. Formerly an aerospace engineer, Singh gave up science to become an ascetic. The title 'Engineer Baba' was pressed into service, and people are still hooked on his transformation from engineering to asceticism.
Sharing his life story, Singh shared that when he completed aerospace engineering from IIT Bombay, he just went to a corporate job briefly. The temptation of a usual career did not fulfill his soul's quest in life. “During this period, my philosophy about life began to change,” he explained.
Travel photography has been the hobby of his passion, which acted as a turning point in his life. In order to pursue this interest, he abandoned his engineering career and joined a professional course in travel photography. He then started an evolutionary journey towards spirituality.
Singh did not stop at photography. He also tried teaching, opening a coaching center where he taught physics. Despite his academic success, he found himself looking for deeper fulfillment, which eventually guided him towards a spiritual path.
Today, Singh identifies as a devotee of Lord Shiva, saying, "Now I am enjoying spirituality. I understand spirituality through science. I am going into its depths. Everything is Shiva. Truth is Shiva, and Shiva is beautiful."
Singh’s presence at the Maha Kumbh has drawn attention not only for his background but also for his fluency in English and ability to blend scientific insight with spiritual wisdom. This unique combination distinguishes him from traditional ascetics.
Increasing social media influence
On social media, Singh has a modest yet growing following of almost 29,000 Instagram followers. His posts include meditation, yoga, and ancient sutras on spiritual practice, which finds a wide response.
Reflecting on his experience at the Maha Kumbh, Singh said he felt peaceful and calm. “Being here has given me peace of mind,” he shared.