Laurene Powell Jobs, renowned billionaire philanthropist and widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, recently made headlines during her visit to the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh. Overwhelmed by the enormous crowds at the world’s largest religious gathering, Laurene experienced a brief period of indisposition. However, following a rejuvenating Ganga Snan (holy dip in the Ganges) and sufficient rest, she is now recovering well and continues her spiritual exploration with unwavering enthusiasm, according to a statement issued by the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday.
The government statement, quoting her guru, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri of the Niranjani Akhara, shared that Laurene’s commitment to learning about Sanatan Dharma remains steadfast. As part of her spiritual journey, Laurene has been bestowed with a new name, “Kamla,” by Swami Kailashanand.
Speaking about his disciple, Swami Kailashanand described Laurene as a “simple, virtuous, and humble” individual. He elaborated, “Laurene faced some health issues on Monday due to the overwhelming crowds, but after taking a Ganga Snan and resting, she feels much better. She is free from ego and completely devoted to her guru. Her enthusiasm to understand Sanatan Dharma is evident in her many questions, all of which bring her immense joy and satisfaction when answered.”
Mahant Ravindra Puri, the chief of Panchayati Akhara Shri Niranjani and president of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP), emphasized Laurene’s humility and deep respect for India’s ancient traditions. “Her quest for spirituality brought her to the Maha Kumbh. Despite being one of the world’s wealthiest and most famous individuals, she is devoid of ego and carries herself with simplicity and grace,” Puri said.
Dressed modestly in a peach-yellow salwar suit with a saffron stole and a Rudraksha necklace, Laurene has largely avoided the spotlight during her visit. Brief video clips shared online last week captured her interacting with the spiritual environment, but she has maintained a low profile. According to Puri, “Even when invited to sit on the dais during an event, she chose to remain seated at the back, demonstrating her humility and focus on spirituality.”
Laurene’s spiritual journey at the Kumbh has been marked by her efforts to deeply engage with Sanatan Dharma and its teachings. “She has come to witness our ageless and timeless Sanatana culture, the essence of all consciousness. She is here to meet saints, seers, and the sentinels of the Sanatana faith,” Puri explained.
He also noted that Laurene’s presence at the Kumbh was her first-ever experience of this monumental event. She arrived at the Niranjani Akhara on Sunday and is expected to stay for a few days, immersing herself further in the spiritual atmosphere.
Puri, who also heads the Mansa Devi Mandir Trust in Haridwar, reflected on Laurene’s demeanor, saying, “The way she conducts herself here speaks volumes about her character. Despite her global fame and wealth, she has embraced the simplicity and sanctity of this spiritual pilgrimage.”
Laurene’s visit highlights her deep respect for India’s rich spiritual heritage and its timeless traditions. Her presence at the Maha Kumbh serves as a powerful reminder of the universal appeal of Sanatan Dharma and its capacity to inspire individuals from all walks of life to seek higher consciousness and inner peace.