Laurene Powell Jobs, the 61-year-old American billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist, is scheduled to attend the 2025 Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, according to several media reports. She plans to participate in various rituals and take a holy dip in the Sangam.
During his 17-day stay, Powell Jobs will observe Kalpvas, a spiritual practice followed during the Mela
Kalpvas, a deeply spiritual practice in Hinduism, are highlighted in several ancient texts, including the Mahabharata and the Ramcharitmanas. It represents a period of self-purification and spiritual discipline, during which devotees, known as Kalpvasis, engage in intense rituals and devotion.
The duration of the Kalpva, lasting one month, is said to correspond to a single day in the life of Lord Brahma, or a Kalpa.
Kalpvasis begin their spiritual journey by setting up temporary tents at the Sangam, marking the beginning of their supervision. During this period, they immerse themselves in daily rituals, take holy dips in the Ganga and participate in spiritual gatherings such as kirtans, while listening to teachings from revered saints.
What are Kalpvas?
Kalpvas is an ancient Hindu tradition observed by devotees from Paush Purnima to Maghi Purnima. During this time, Kalpvasis bathe daily in the holy Ganga river, visit the camps of various saints to listen to sermons, and participate in devotional activities such as bhajan (devotional singing) and kirtan (singing). These practices are observed during the Kumbh Mela, a significant spiritual event.
Activities during Kalpvas
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Stream lifestyle: During Kalpvas, participants adopt a simple and disciplined lifestyle, often living in tents while focusing on their spiritual development.
The ultimate goal of Kalpvas is to purify the mind and body, attain spiritual enlightenment and receive divine blessings. The period ends with the sacred observance of Maghi Purnima, when devotees perform rituals and prayers to honor the divine.
Prayagraj will host the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela from January 13 to February 26, drawing millions of pilgrims from around the world to witness and participate in this profound display of faith, unity and India’s spiritual heritage.
The Kumbh Mela gathers millions of ascetics, seekers and devotees who participate in the rituals, with the most important being the holy baptism at the Triveni Sangam. This prayer is believed to purify the soul, release sins and guide individuals towards spiritual liberation. The festival is not only a celebration of India’s spiritual heritage but also symbolizes the universal quest for inner peace, self-realization and collective harmony.
