Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, fell ill during her visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri, in whose camp Powell Jobs is staying, disclosed that she developed allergies due to the crowded and unfamiliar environment.

"She is staying in my ‘shivir’ (camp). Having never been to such a crowded place before, she has developed some allergies. Despite this, she is very humble and has come to experience our traditions," Swami Kailashanand said on Tuesday.

Determined to Take a Holy Dip

Although unwell, Powell Jobs remains resolute in participating in the ritual of taking a holy dip at the Sangam, the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Swami Kailashanand mentioned that she is currently resting in his camp to recover before engaging in the ritual.

Immersed in Indian Spirituality

Powell Jobs arrived at Swami Kailashanand Giri Ji Maharaj’s Ashram on Sunday evening to experience the Maha Kumbh Mela, a rare celestial gathering held after 144 years. Known for its massive scale, the festival is one of the largest religious events in the world, drawing millions of devotees.

On Monday, the 61-year-old American philanthropist participated in the festivities, draping an orange dupatta shawl over her head as she embraced the spiritual experience. She has also been given the Hindu name “Kamala” by the Niranjani Akhara, a prominent group of saints.

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Before arriving in Prayagraj, Powell Jobs visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi on January 11. At the temple, she offered prayers to Baba Kashi Vishwanath, one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas, and performed ‘jalabhishek’ (ritual offering of water) to pray for the successful conduct of the Maha Kumbh.

Maha Kumbh Mela 2025

The 45-day-long Maha Kumbh Mela officially commenced on January 14 and will run until February 26. This once-in-144-years event is expected to draw over 450 million devotees to the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, making it a monumental spiritual gathering.

Despite her temporary illness, Laurene Powell Jobs’ journey reflects her commitment to exploring Indian culture and spirituality at this historic event.