Steve Jobs' 1974 Letter On Desire To Attend Kumbh Auctioned For Over Rs 4 Cr

Last Updated:January 15, 2025, 21:41 IST

The letter, addressed to his childhood friend Tim Brown, sheds light on Jobs’ spiritual side and his plans to visit India for the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu festival

A letter written by Apple co-founder Steve Jobs in 1974 has been sold at an auction for almost Rs 4.32 crore. At the time, Jobs was just 19 years old when he wrote the note.

In the letter, addressed to his childhood friend Tim Brown, was sent just before his birthday, he expressed his desire to travel to India to attend the Kumbh Mela, which was due to begin in April that year.

“I wish to go to India for the Kumbh Mela, which starts in April. I will be leaving sometime in March, not really certain yet," he wrote, ending the letter with “Shanti, Steve Jobs."

Jobs’ journey to India was life-changing. He spent time at the Neem Karoli Baba ashram in Uttarakhand, although he arrived after the spiritual leader’s death. He stayed at Kainchi Dham, immersing himself in Indian culture and spirituality for seven months, Indian Express reported.

This year, the city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh is hosting the Maha Kumbh Mela, a spiritual gathering that occurs every 12 years.

To honour her late husband’s connection to India, Laurene Powell Jobs, Steve’s widow, is attending the Maha Kumbh Mela this year. Laurene, who is a follower of Swami Kailashanand Giri, was expected to take part in the first ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Triveni Sangam, but was unable to do so due to allergies.

Laurene, who arrived in Varanasi earlier, will stay at the camp of her guru and participate in various rituals of the Maha Kumbh till January 29.

Despite her allergies, she is determined to take part in the Ganga River bathing ritual. During her visit, Laurene will also embrace practices such as meditation, Kriya Yoga, and Pranayama.

Laurene is one of many high-profile figures, including VIPs, VVIPs, saints, and spiritual leaders, attending the event. As part of the traditional ‘kalpvas’ ritual, she will offer prayers during her month-long stay.

Kalpvas is an ancient Hindu tradition in which devotees observe a month of dedicated spiritual practices, starting from Paush Purnima to Maghi Purnima.

News world Steve Jobs' 1974 Letter On Desire To Attend Kumbh Auctioned For Over Rs 4 Cr