- By Imran Zafar
- Sun, 19 Jan 2025 10:33 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mahakumbh 2025: The father of IIT Baba, formerly Abhay Singh, has made an emotional plea for his son to return home. Abhay, an IIT Mumbai alumnus turned ascetic, has gained significant attention at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. His father, Karan Grewal, acknowledges the challenges of his son returning to family life after embracing sainthood.
Karan Grewal, a lawyer practising in Jhajjar Court, recalled Abhay’s exceptional academic journey. From excelling in local schools to cracking the IIT entrance exam, Abhay displayed brilliance from an early age, Grewal stated.
At IIT Mumbai, he pursued a Master's degree in Designing and later worked with prestigious firms in Delhi and Canada. Despite earning a lucrative salary of approximately Rs 3 lakh per month in Canada, Abhay battled depression and felt disillusioned with corporate life.
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Seeking a deeper purpose, Abhay returned to India and embarked on a spiritual quest, spending winters travelling to several spiritual hubs in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand like Haridwar. Eventually, he renounced his materialistic life and joined the Shri Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, taking on the identity of IIT Baba.
Speaking to News18, Grewal shared details of his last conversation with Abhay six months ago. After this interaction, Abhay distanced himself from the family. While Grewal expressed his family’s longing for Abhay’s return, he admitted it might no longer be possible due to his commitment to the ascetic lifestyle.
Despite the emotional appeal, Grewal respects his son’s decision to lead a spiritual life, recognising the profound shift in his priorities and identity.
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Abhay’s transformation into IIT Baba has made him a focal point at the Mahakumbh 2025. Once an aerospace engineer with a promising career, he chose to abandon his high-paying job in Canada to embrace spirituality. His journey has sparked widespread interest and discussions among devotees and visitors at the Mahakumbh.