Prayagraj received its first international flight in 93 years after a Bhutan Airways plane landed at Prayagraj airport with American billionaire Steve Jobs’ wife, Laurene Powell Jobs, on board, The Times of India reported.
After attending the Maha Kumbh Mela, Powell flew back to Bhutan on the same plane. This marked the first international flight from Prayagraj in 93 years.
Allahabad (now Prayagraj) airport was one of the first international airports in India. The first international flight flew to London until 1932, after which international flights were discontinued. The Maha Kumbh Mela brought a unique event to the airport, as it saw an international flight again, this time to facilitate a billionaire. In 1911, Henri Piquet started domestic commercial aviation in India by flying mail from Allahabad to Naini.
Powell’s presence in the Mahakumbh made headlines and gained significant attention. During her visit, she adopted the Hindu name “Kamala” and participated in the traditional Kalpavas ritual, which includes daily baths in sacred rivers, meditation, and a strict vegetarian diet.
Mrs Jobs developed an allergic reaction but continued her participation in the rituals.
A 1974 letter written by a 19-year-old Steve Jobs has been sold for $500,312 (Rs 4.32 crore) at auction.
The letter, written by Jobs, was sent to his childhood friend Tim Brown. In the letter, he talks about his plans to visit India for the Kumbh Mela and offers a glimpse into his spiritual side.He writes, “I wish to go to India for the Kumbh Mela, which starts in April,” and signs off with “Shanti, Steve Jobs.”
The Maha Kumbh Mela is being held from January 13 to February 26, 2025.
It is one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, attracting millions of devotees to take the holy dig at Sangam- the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers.
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