Prayagraj: Abhay Singh, a former IIT Bombay graduate who gained widespread attention as ‘IIT Baba’ during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, has been expelled from the Juna Akhara for violating its code of conduct. Reports indicate that Singh’s expulsion follows allegations of using abusive language against his spiritual leader, Mahant Someshwar Puri.
Mahant Hari Giri, the chief patron of Juna Akhara, condemned Singh’s actions, stating, “Disrespecting one’s guru is a grave violation of Sanatan Dharma and the core values upheld by the akhara.” He emphasized that such behavior undermines the sacred guru-shishya (master-disciple) tradition and the discipline of sanyas (renunciation).
Singh, a former aerospace engineer, rose to fame on social media, particularly through Instagram reels that captured his activities at the Kumbh Mela, drawing attention from a large online following. Known by his spiritual name, Masani Gorakh, Singh previously earned a Masters in Design, worked in photography, and taught physics before transitioning into spirituality.
In a previous interview, Singh shared his philosophical journey, stating that he turned to concepts like post-modernism, Socrates, and Plato to understand the meaning of life. He expressed his belief that spirituality offers true knowledge and plays a vital role in understanding the mind and mental health.
While his departure from the Juna Akhara has attracted attention, Singh remains indifferent to public opinion about his unconventional career path. Meanwhile, thousands of devotees continue to bathe in the holy waters at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati during the ongoing religious gathering.
