Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, has embraced Sanatan Dharma during her visit to the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.
According to her spiritual guide, Swami Kailashanand Giri, head seer of the Panchayati Akhada Shri Niranjani, she expressed her desire to join the ancient tradition and delve deeper into its teachings, reports the Hindustan Times.
Swami Kailashanand Giri revealed that Powell Jobs, who has been profoundly influenced by Hindu philosophy, was initiated into Sanatan Dharma on 14 January, coinciding with Makar Sankranti.
The initiation ceremony took place at 10:10pm local time.
The philanthropist had previously been given the Hindu name "Kamala" and assigned a Gotra by the Akhara in February of the previous year.
"She has reached the zenith of material success and now seeks spiritual fulfillment," Swami Kailashanand Giri told news agency AN.
"Kamala has joined her Guru to learn her tradition. She is humble, composed, and led a simple life in the Shivir for four days, akin to any other devotee."
Accompanied by a retinue of about 50 personal staff members, Powell Jobs traveled to India aboard two aircraft. During her stay, she adhered strictly to a vegetarian diet, abstaining from garlic and onion, in keeping with the ascetic lifestyle prescribed by her spiritual practices.
Despite facing a brief health setback amid the throngs of devotees at the Mahakumbh, Powell Jobs’ resolve to engage with Sanatan Dharma remained steadfast.
A statement from the Uttar Pradesh government noted her illness on 13 January, but affirmed her recovery after a "Ganga Snan" and rest.
"Laurene’s enthusiasm to explore Sanatan Dharma persists," the statement quoted Swami Kailashanand Giri as saying.
The Mahakumbh, which began on 13 January, continues to draw millions of devotees from across India and around the globe.
The most significant gathering was observed during the first Amrit Snan on Makar Sankranti.