New Delhi: Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, recently participated in the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, one of the world’s biggest spiritual gatherings. Even though she missed the holy dip in the Ganga on the first day of the congregation due to health issues, her presence still invited significant attention. After her spiritual experience at the Kumbh, Laurene made headlines by being part of a historic moment that added to the significance of her visit.
Laurene’s flight achieves a milestone
A Bhutan Airways aircraft landed at Prayagraj airport, carrying Laurene. After participating in the Maha Kumbh Mela, she returned to Bhutan by the same flight. This event marked a historic milestone for the airport, as it was Prayagraj’s first international flight in 93 years.
It was way back in 1911 that Henri Piquet launched domestic commercial aviation in India, flying mail from Allahabad (now Prayagraj) to Naini. By 1931, the Allahabad aerodrome was set up, making it one of India’s first international airports, with flights operating to London until 1932.
Steve Jobs’ letter to friend
Steve Jobs, in a letter dated February 23, 1974, written to his childhood friend Tim Brown, showed his desire to attend the Kumbh Mela. He wrote, “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.” The letter, which concluded with “Shanti, Steve Jobs,” provides a heartfelt reflection of his deep connection to Hindu philosophy and spirituality. It also contains a rare and poignant note of Jobs having “cried many times,” providing an intimate peep into his emotional depth. Recently, the letter went up for $500,321.50 (roughly Rs 4.32 crore).
Steve Jobs’ spiritual odyssey brought him to India, where he paid a visit to the Neem Karoli Ashram in Uttarakhand. Although the saint had passed away years before his visit, the teachings of the saint impacted Jobs profoundly.
