The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj has witnessed an array of fascinating personalities, but none have drawn as much attention as Abhey Singh, popularly known as the “IIT Baba.” Once an accomplished aerospace engineer, Abhey Singh left behind a high-paying career and the bustling corporate world to embark on a spiritual journey that captured the public’s imagination. However, his rise to prominence has been overshadowed by recent controversies, leading to his expulsion from the prestigious Juna Akhara, a revered spiritual institution.
Let’s explore the inspiring yet turbulent journey of Abhey Singh—from an IIT Bombay alumnus to a controversial spiritual figure.
The Early Life of Abhey Singh
Abhey Singh hails from Sasarouli village in Haryana, where he excelled in academics from an early age. His brilliance earned him a spot at IIT Bombay, one of India’s premier engineering institutions, where he specialized in aerospace engineering.
After graduating, Singh’s future appeared promising. He secured a lucrative job in Canada, earning an impressive salary of ₹36 lakh per annum. By all conventional standards, he had achieved success, yet deep within, he grappled with a sense of dissatisfaction.
Turning Point: Battling Depression in a Foreign Land
While living abroad, Abhey Singh found himself battling depression and questioning the meaning of life. Despite his career achievements, a profound sense of emptiness consumed him. Singh began to challenge societal notions of success and sought to understand the workings of the mind on a deeper level.
This period of inner turmoil marked a turning point in his life. Abhey Singh made the life-altering decision to quit his prestigious job and return to India in pursuit of spirituality.
Embracing Spirituality
After returning to India, Singh set out on a path of spiritual discovery. Over time, he became affiliated with the Juna Akhara, one of the largest and most respected akharas (monastic orders) in the country. Adopting the lifestyle of a monk, he immersed himself in spiritual practices, renouncing worldly pleasures and material possessions.
His background as an IIT alumnus and his relatable struggles with mental health resonated deeply with people. His unique journey—transitioning from a high-flying professional to a spiritual guru—captured widespread attention, earning him the title of “IIT Baba.”
The Controversies Surrounding IIT Baba
In the midst of his growing fame, Abhey Singh’s reputation has been marred by controversy. Recently, he was expelled from the Juna Akhara for alleged breaches of its strict disciplinary code. Reports claim that Singh used abusive language toward his guru, Mahant Someshwar Puri, an act considered a grave offense in the Guru-Shishya (teacher-student) tradition.
The Juna Akhara’s disciplinary rules require a monk to adhere to principles of respect, humility, and devotion to their guru. Singh’s alleged violations led to his dramatic fall from grace within the order, casting a shadow over his once-admired persona.
IIT Baba and the Maha Kumbh Viral Incident
Amidst his controversies, IIT Baba has continued to make headlines. During the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, he once again found himself in the spotlight—this time for smashing a man’s phone when he was trying to film him. The video of the incident went viral, with fans and critics debating the boundaries of privacy and fame in today’s world.
The incident has further polarized public opinion about Abhey Singh. While some view his journey as an inspiring example of self-discovery, others criticize him for failing to uphold the values of humility and discipline associated with spiritual leaders.
Reflecting on Abhey Singh’s Journey
The story of Abhey Singh, IIT Baba, is both inspiring and cautionary. It highlights:
1. The Struggles with Success: Singh’s decision to leave behind a high-paying job reflects the growing discontent many individuals feel in fast-paced, success-driven careers.
2. Mental Health Awareness: His battle with depression underscores the importance of prioritizing mental well-being over societal expectations of success.
3. Challenges of Spiritual Pursuit: The controversies surrounding his behavior remind us that the path of spirituality, like any other, is fraught with challenges.
Conclusion
Abhey Singh’s journey is a fascinating narrative of personal transformation, marked by remarkable achievements, deep introspection, and turbulent controversies. Whether as an aerospace engineer or as IIT Baba, his story serves as a reminder of the complexities of human experiences—where the search for meaning often comes with challenges that test one’s discipline, humility, and commitment.
As he navigates through the ups and downs of his spiritual life, the story of IIT Baba is far from over. Only time will tell whether Abhey Singh’s journey takes a turn toward redemption or remains a cautionary tale for those who tread the path of self-discovery.
