Steve Jobs' Handwritten Letter on Kumbh Mela Fetches a Whopping ₹4.32 Crore at Auction

The 1974 letter reveals Steve Jobs' spiritual aspirations to attend the Kumbh Mela, showcasing his profound connection to Indian culture and philosophy.

January 15, 2025: A handwritten letter by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, detailing his plans to visit India for the Kumbh Mela, has been sold at an auction by Bonhams for an astounding $500,312 (₹4.32 crore). Written in 1974, the letter was addressed to his childhood friend Tim Brown, offering a rare glimpse into Jobs' spiritual journey and introspective thoughts during his youth.

Also Read: Steve Jobs Wife Falls Ill at Maha Kumbh: "Never Been to Such a Crowded Place"

Postmarked just a day before Jobs’ 19th birthday, the letter reflects his exploration of Zen Buddhism and a longing for spiritual fulfillment. Jobs shared his intention to travel to India for the Kumbh Mela, writing, "I wish to go to India for the Kumbh Mela, which starts in April. I will be leaving sometime in March, not really certain yet." He signed off the heartfelt message with "Shanti, Steve Jobs."

Also Read: Steve Job's Wife Laurene Visits Kashi Vishwanath Temple Ahead of Maha Kumbh

Steve Jobs’ spiritual journey in India began with an intention to visit the ashram of Neem Karoli Baba in Uttarakhand. However, upon arriving in Nainital, he learned that Neem Karoli Baba had passed away the previous year. Despite this, Jobs stayed at Kainchi Dham Ashram, deeply immersing himself in the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba and spending seven months exploring India's culture and spirituality.

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The transformation was evident when Jobs returned to the United States. As he recounted, "My head had been shaved, I was wearing Indian cotton robes, and my skin had turned a deep, chocolate brown-red from the sun." He even adopted the orange robes of a Sadhu, reflecting his spiritual enlightenment.

In a poignant twist, Laurene Powell Jobs, Steve Jobs' widow, has fulfilled one of his unfulfilled wishes by attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj. Laurene, who has been given the Hindu name "Kamala" by her guru Swami Kailashanand Giri, has been participating in rituals, including meditation, Kriya Yoga, and Pranayama. Despite developing allergies during her visit, she plans to partake in the sacred Ganga River bath ritual.

Accompanied by a 40-member entourage, Laurene’s presence at the Mahakumbh underscores her respect for Indian traditions and her late husband’s enduring spiritual legacy.

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Steve Jobs, Kumbh Mela, Laurene Powell Jobs, Steve Jobs letter, Zen Buddhism, Neem Karoli Baba, Kainchi Dham, Indian spirituality, Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, Bonhams auction.