Abhay Singh: The IITian Who Chose Spirituality Over Tech
Early Life and Family Challenges
Abhay Singh, now known as ‘IIT Wale Baba,’ hails from Sasrauli village in Jhajjar district, Haryana. Born on March 3, 1990, Abhay grew up in a household marred by frequent disputes between his parents, both practicing lawyers. His father, Advocate Karan Singh Grewal, and mother, Sheela Devi, had a strained relationship that deeply affected Abhay’s sensitive nature.
Karan Singh, a former president of the Jhajjar Bar Association, admitted that his son’s decision to embrace spirituality stemmed from witnessing these domestic conflicts. “Children absorb more than we realize. Abhay internalized our arguments, which shaped his outlook on life,” he reflected. Abhay’s mother echoed similar sentiments, expressing her hope for his happiness despite his unconventional choices.
Academic Excellence and Loneliness
Abhay displayed academic brilliance from an early age. After schooling in Jhajjar, he prepared for the IIT entrance exam in Delhi. At just 18, he secured admission to IIT Mumbai in 2008, where he pursued a BTech degree. Later, he completed his MTech in Designing at the same institution.
However, Abhay’s life took a turn after his elder sister’s marriage in 2017, which left him feeling isolated. His sister, who moved to Canada and later settled in the USA, had been a source of emotional support for him. This loneliness led Abhay to seek medical advice, and doctors recommended engaging in work to counter potential depression.
Professional Career and Shift to Spirituality
Abhay worked briefly in Canada but struggled with a sense of purpose. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns further exacerbated his feelings of isolation. He returned to India and began exploring spirituality, spending six months at Sadhguru’s Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore. This marked the beginning of his spiritual journey, which later included visits to Dharamshala, Rishikesh, and extensive self-study in Delhi.
In 2022, Abhay’s connection with his family began to wane. Despite their repeated attempts to reach him, he eventually severed contact. Months later, his family was surprised to discover videos of Abhay embracing the life of a Sanyasi, gaining recognition as ‘IIT Wale Baba.’
Insights into Spiritual Beliefs
Speaking at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Abhay candidly shared the reasons behind his decision to renounce worldly life. He cited the impact of his parents’ conflicts and his aversion to marriage as key factors. “I realized that staying alone brought me more peace than following societal expectations,” he stated.
Abhay also revealed his attempts to understand spirituality through a scientific lens. “Everything is Shiva. Shiva is the ultimate truth and beauty,” he said, reflecting his profound belief in his chosen path.
Controversy and Expulsion from Juna Akhara
Abhay’s spiritual journey faced a significant setback when he was expelled from Juna Akhara, a prominent religious order. The decision followed allegations of him using abusive language toward his Guru, Mahant Someshwar Puri. The Akhara emphasized that discipline and respect for one’s Guru are fundamental to the Sanyasi tradition. As a result, Abhay was barred from participating in the Akhara camp activities.
Family’s Perspective and Hopes
Despite their initial shock, Abhay’s parents remain hopeful for his return. “He is my only son. As a father, all I want is his happiness and health,” said Karan Singh. Both parents stressed the importance of minimizing family disputes for the well-being of children, drawing lessons from their own experiences.
Lessons from Abhay’s Journey
Abhay Singh’s transformation into ‘IIT Wale Baba’ highlights the profound impact of family dynamics on a child’s psyche. His journey serves as a reminder of the importance of emotional support and understanding within families. While his path remains unconventional, it underscores the significance of finding one’s peace, even if it defies societal norms.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
