IITian Baba Abhey Singh
Abhey Singh, often referred to as "IITian Baba," is a former aerospace engineer from Haryana, India, who transitioned from a promising engineering career to a life of asceticism and spirituality. An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, he pursued a degree in aerospace engineering.
After completing his studies, Singh moved to Canada in 2019, where he secured a well-paying job, earning approximately ₹3 lakh per month (around ₹36 lakh annually). Despite his professional success, he grappled with feelings of depression and a sense of unfulfillment. These personal challenges prompted him to seek solace in spirituality, leading him to renounce his materialistic lifestyle and embrace asceticism.
Singh's decision to adopt a monastic life was also influenced by his tumultuous childhood experiences. He recounted instances of domestic violence between his parents, which left a lasting impact on his psyche. To cope with the distress at home, he immersed himself in studies, often staying up late into the night. These early life experiences played a significant role in shaping his path toward spirituality and his choice to remain unmarried.
In 2025, during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Singh gained widespread attention due to his unique background. His appearance, characterized by dreadlocked hair and traditional ascetic attire, juxtaposed with his fluent English and educational credentials, intrigued many attendees and media outlets. This contrast earned him the moniker "IITian Baba."
Despite his family's pleas for him to return home, Singh remains steadfast in his spiritual journey. He has distanced himself from his family, believing that his commitment to asceticism precludes a return to his former life. His father, Karan Grewal, expressed a desire for his son's return but acknowledged the improbability of such an event, given Singh's dedication to his chosen path.
Abhey Singh's transformation from an IIT graduate and aerospace engineer to a revered ascetic underscores a profound personal journey marked by a search for inner peace and spiritual fulfillment, moving beyond the conventional metrics of success.