Abhay Singh, widely known as IIT Baba, was born and raised in Haryana, India. He grew up in a challenging family environment marked by strained relationships and a troubled childhood.
Despite these hardships, he excelled academically, securing admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay. He pursued a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Aerospace Engineering from the 2008–2012 batch.
Career and Transition to Spirituality
After graduating from IIT Bombay, Abhay Singh secured a high-paying job in Canada, earning approximately ₹36 lakh per annum. However, despite his financial success, he found himself struggling with depression and existential questions. Dissatisfied with the corporate lifestyle, he embarked on a journey of self-exploration.
His quest for knowledge led him to study Sanskrit, philosophy, and psychology. He delved into the teachings of ISKCON and was particularly influenced by J. Krishnamurti’s philosophies. Additionally, he developed a passion for photography, which became a medium for his self-expression and spiritual exploration.
Becoming ‘IIT Baba’
By 2021, Abhay had begun actively sharing his thoughts on life, consciousness, and enlightenment through social media. His content, often resembling personal vlogs, gained little traction initially. However, his unconventional insights and intellectual approach to spirituality gradually started attracting attention.
In 2024, he gained national recognition after an interview at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj went viral. Dubbed IIT Baba, his background as an IIT graduate-turned-spiritual-seeker fascinated the public and media alike. His social media following surged, with his Instagram account amassing over 200K followers within days.
Controversies and Public Scrutiny
With sudden fame came controversy. Reports emerged suggesting that he had been asked to leave the Juna Akhara’s ashram at the Kumbh Mela, allegedly due to his growing media presence. Singh refuted these claims, asserting that certain factions felt threatened by his popularity.
Additionally, rumors regarding his mental health and alleged drug use surfaced, which he categorically denied. Some seers also claimed to be his mentors, a claim that he strongly dismissed.
Philosophy and Beliefs
Abhay Singh’s spiritual philosophy revolves around self-liberation and continuous learning. He rejects traditional labels of sage or mahant, emphasizing a fluid and independent approach to spirituality. He believes in the integration of science and spirituality, often using diagrams and visual representations to simplify complex spiritual concepts.
His teachings focus on mindfulness, Vedic wisdom, and psychological introspection. He advocates for an open-minded approach to spirituality, where individuals seek their own truth rather than blindly following established doctrines.
Present and Future
Despite media speculation and controversies, IIT Baba continues his journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. His newfound fame has placed him in the spotlight, but whether he continues as a public figure or retreats into a more private existence remains to be seen.
Regardless of what lies ahead, Abhay Singh’s story serves as a compelling example of how intellect and spirituality can intersect, challenging traditional notions of success and fulfillment.
