Author: Mike Deny

The Maha Kumbh Mela is often seen as the world’s largest spiritual assembly. This revered Hindu festival commenced on January 13 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, drawing millions of devotees who engage in sacred ceremonies, the most prominent being the holy immersion at the Triveni Sangam – the junction of the three sacred rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. This sacred bath is believed to cleanse the spirit, eliminate sins, and lead one towards spiritual freedom.

As the Maha Kumbh 2025 unfolds, it brings not just a spiritual atmosphere but also a wave of viral moments that capture the excitement of the event. Here are five memorable incidents from the Kumbh Mela that have captivated the online world.

Skydiver unveils the Maha Kumbh flag at 13,000 feet

Anamika Sharma from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, showcased the Mahakumbh flag at an altitude of 13,000 feet over Bangkok. An Instagram video captures Ms. Sharma with the flag just before she boards an aircraft, followed by her leap from the plane while unfurling the flag in mid-air, symbolically inviting everyone to the Mahakumbh 2025.

‘IIT Baba’ at the Maha Kumbh

A prominent figure among the multitude of saints, sages, and spiritual leaders present at the Maha Kumbh is a former aerospace engineer from IIT Bombay, affectionately dubbed ‘IIT Baba.’ Abhey Singh, hailing from Haryana, transitioned from a career in science to a spiritual life, professing devotion to Lord Shiva. His articulate English communication has sparked considerable intrigue during his time at the Kumbh.

Laurene Powell Jobs at the Maha Kumbh

Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is presently in India for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. Under the guidance of her guru, Swami Kailashanand Giri, she has adopted the Hindu name “Kamala.” She engages in spiritual practices including meditation, Kriya Yoga, and Pranayama, reflecting her deep appreciation for Indian spiritual traditions.

Image: ANI

Seer arrives at the Maha Kumbh on a Harley Davidson

As millions flock to Prayagraj for a sacred dip in the Ganga river, one seer made a striking entrance on a motorcycle, riding into the tent city on a Harley Davidson. This surprising arrival has left social media users astonished.

Chai Wale Baba, offering free IAS coaching at the Maha Kumbh

“Chai Wale Baba,” a monk and former tea vendor, has devoted the past 40 years to offering complimentary coaching for civil service aspirants. Known as Dinesh Swaroop Brahmachari, he maintains a vow of silence and survives on a mere ten cups of tea daily, communicating with students through gestures and WhatsApp messages.

The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 is scheduled from January 13 to February 26 in Prayagraj. This festival not only celebrates India’s rich spiritual legacy but also embodies the perennial human search for inner peace, self-discovery, and collective harmony.