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Laurene Powell Jobs, wife of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, recently participated in the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, which is one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world. Even though health issues prevented her from taking the holy dip in the Ganga on the first day of the event, her presence attracted significant attention. After completing her spiritual experience at the Kumbh, Laurene made headlines by being part of a memorable moment.
A Bhutan Airways flight recently arrived at the Prayagraj airport, carrying the American billionaire. After her visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela, she flew back to Bhutan on the very same plane, by marking Prayagraj’s first international flight in 93 years—an extraordinary milestone for the airport. In 1911, Henri Piquet started domestic commercial aviation in India by flying mail from Allahabad (now Prayagraj) to Naini.
By 1931, the Allahabad aerodrome was successfully established, becoming 1 of India's earliest international airports, with flights to London until 1932. In a letter dated February 23, 1974, written to his childhood friend Tim Brown, Jobs shared his deep wish to attend the Kumbh Mela, a major Hindu pilgrimage and festival celebrated by millions. He wrote, "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." The letter, concluding with "Shanti, Steve Jobs," offers a poignant testament to his deep connection with Sanatan philosophy and spirituality. It also contains a heart touching note about Jobs having "cried many times," which provided a rare insight into the emotional depth.