From Computer Baba, IITian Baba to Rabdi Baba: Meet the viral Babas at Mahakumbh Mela 2025

The Mahakumbh Mela, one of the most significant spiritual gatherings in the world, is set to begin in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on January 13 and will continue until February 26. Held every 12 years, the Purna Kumbh Mela draws millions of devotees from across India and around the globe. This festival is the manifestation of devotion, traditions, and spirituality.

While all devotees and followers are equal in front of the higher power some have gained special attention due to their peculiarities online. Let us look at some of them and discover what makes them special.

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Originally from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Ambassador Baba has won the hearts of many online. Mahant Rajgiri Naga Baba has been traveling in a vintage 1972 Ambassador car for 35 years. He always arrives at Kumbh Mela's location on his Ambassador, earning him the title of- Ambassador Baba. Baba lives, sleeps, and even eats in his car.

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Baba Mokshpuri, formerly known as Michael, is a US Army veteran from New Mexico, is amongst the Babas that have gained much traction. As per the report of The New Indian Express, Baba Mokshpuri’s spiritual journey began in 2000 when he visited India with his family, seeking solace and direction after the devastating loss of his son. This tragedy became a turning point, leading him to embrace Sanatan Dharma in his quest for Moksha, or ultimate salvation.
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Environment Baba or Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Aruna Giri, also amongst the Babas whose arrival at the Mahakumbh Mela created quite a buzz. In August 2016 the Baba distributed 27 lakh plants from Vaishno Devi to Kanyakumari. Since then, he has advised his followers to plant two trees—one for final rites and one Peepal tree for oxygen. Talking to ANI, he said, “I have performed 82 rituals so far. My devotees from almost 30 countries have committed to planting over 1 crore trees in our country. In 2016, during a march from Vaishnodevi to Kanyakumari, we planted trees across 27 states. Since then, devotees started calling me Environment Baba.”

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Shri Mahant Devgiri of Shri Panchayati Akhada Mahanirvani, famously known as Rabri Baba has won hearts with his selfless act of service for the devotees coming to the Mela. Rabri Baba told ANI, “The Kadhai is set up at 8:00 in the morning, but before that, I complete my daily routine, including bathing, meditation, and prayers. I perform my worship in the morning, just as you do. It is not for publicity but a matter of the soul connecting the soul to the Supreme Being and the Supreme Being to the ultimate throne."

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A former chai wala turned monk, has been involved in the practice of providing free coaching to students preparing for civil services. However, with a twist the Baba neither speaks nor eats anything. The Baba has taken a solemn vow to abstain from speaking and eating, he survives on 10 cups of chai and teaches students via WhatsApp.
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Known for his love of gadgets and technology, Das Tyagi, famously called Computer Baba, is a unique figure at the Kumbh Mela. His nickname, "Computer Baba," was given to him by a saint in Narsinghpur back in 1998, reflecting his fascination with all things tech. True to his name, he is often seen carrying a laptop and enjoys watching cartoons on it.
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Rudraksha Baba is known for his unique adornment—a necklace comprising 108 strands of Rudraksha beads, totaling an impressive 11,000 beads. The beads together weigh about 30 kilogram, earning him the title Rudraksha Baba.
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