Viral IIT Baba's Family Wants Him to Return Home. Here's What He Told Them

The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has brought attention to Abhey Singh, a former aerospace engineer who has captivated the media with his spiritual journey. Known as IIT Baba, Singh has left a lasting impression on the thousands of devotees gathered at the holy site. However, his family, particularly his father, Karan Grewal, an advocate from Jhajjar, Haryana, hopes for his return home.

The Family's Request

In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Karan Grewal expressed his desire for his son to come back. “Our family wishes Abhey to return home,” he shared. “But after achieving so much, it's not easy for him to come back.” Despite his son’s success in the spiritual realm, Grewal acknowledged that Singh's journey was always marked by excellence, especially in academics.

Abhey Singh, after completing his education at IIT Bombay, went on to pursue a Master's in Design and worked in New Delhi and Canada before he shifted his focus to spirituality, spending winters in various spiritual destinations like Shimla, Mussoorie, and Dharamshala.

A Sudden Break in Communication

Grewal revealed that he was in contact with his son until six months ago, after which Abhey Singh blocked him and severed all communication. The father explained, “I heard he was in Haridwar and wanted to visit him but couldn't, and now he has gone viral in the media.”

Despite the emotional disconnect, Grewal maintains respect for his son’s decisions. “He was always independent, so what he's decided, he has decided. Everyone has the right to live their life the way they choose, and I can't pressure him,” he said.

The Spiritual Journey

Abhey Singh’s decision to embrace a sanyasi (ascetic) life stems from his deep-rooted interest in spirituality. According to his father, “He was always interested in spirituality.” However, the decision has not come without personal challenges. Singh, speaking to NDTV, recently revealed how his childhood experiences with domestic violence influenced his decision to pursue a solitary life. While he was not directly affected by the abuse, the constant conflict between his parents deeply impacted him. “I would study late at night to escape the chaos at home,” he shared.

Singh also explained that his decision not to marry was driven by the trauma he experienced during his upbringing, leading him to choose a peaceful, solitary path.

Family's Last Attempt

Despite the deep rift, Grewal expressed hope that his son might return. “Obviously, I want him to come home,” he said. His wife, Singh’s mother, has also expressed her wish for him to return, hoping he will take care of the family. However, Singh’s commitment to his spiritual path remains steadfast, with his father acknowledging that it is unlikely he will be convinced otherwise.

As Abhey Singh continues to attract media attention, his family respects his autonomy while quietly hoping for a reconciliation.