Laurene Powell Jobs, philanthropist and wife of late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, visited the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi on Saturday, accompanied by spiritual leader Swami Kailashanand Giri of Niranjani Akhara. The visit, marked by reverence and adherence to Indian traditions, also included prayers for the smooth completion of the upcoming Maha Kumbh.
Speaking to reporters outside the temple, Swami Kailashanand Giri clarified lingering speculation around the visit, calling Powell Jobs “a daughter” and highlighting her deep respect for Indian spirituality. “She is very religious and spiritual,” he said. “She wants to learn about our traditions and respects me as a father and Guru. Indian traditions are being accepted by the world.”
He also addressed the temple’s strict protocols, noting that Powell Jobs followed all customs. “Non-Hindus cannot touch the Shivling, and she saw it from outside. Traditions must be maintained,” he explained, adding that she would participate in the Maha Kumbh, including taking a sacred dip in the Ganga.
A global connection to Indian spirituality
Swami Kailashanand Giri also revealed that the Akhara is preparing to appoint its first Mahamandaleshwar from the USA, Maharshi Vyasanand. The new leader expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am honored to represent the Shankaracharya Parampara to the world.”
The temple visit, which included rituals and offerings, underscored the increasing global appeal of Indian spiritual traditions. “Today, we prayed to Mahadev for the successful completion of the Maha Kumbh,” the Maharaj added.
Maha Kumbh: A global gathering of faith
The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is set to host over 45 crore devotees in Prayagraj. Key bathing dates include January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of India’s 12 Jyotirlingas, has seen an exponential rise in devotees since the inauguration of Kashi Vishwanath Dham in December 2021. Powell Jobs’ visit reflects the growing global resonance of this sacred site.
Swami Kailashanand’s remarks captured the significance of the moment: “Indian spirituality is reaching every corner of the world, and this visit is a testament to that truth.”