“IIT Baba,” the latest internet sensation, has inexplicably captured hearts with his rhetoric on detachment and spirituality. At first glance, even I found him somewhat intriguing. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that he is nothing more than a self-serving failure, attempting to mask his profound inadequacies through superficial spirituality.
The Hollow Claims of a Higher Purpose
True spirituality is not about escaping the harsh realities of life or evading personal responsibility; it is about confronting life’s challenges with integrity and purpose. While IIT Baba claims to have a higher purpose, paradoxically, he fails to engage in any essential practices—such as kriyas—that would enable him to discover or fulfill that purpose. His rhetoric about a greater mission is hollow, as his actions reveal a complete lack of commitment to the very discipline that could help him realize his supposed calling.
Instead of being a model of personal transformation, his supposed “mission” is nothing more than a means to elevate himself—without any of the sacrifice, discipline, or introspection that true spirituality requires. His journey is one of self-exploitation, not enlightenment.
Contradictory and Irresponsible Behavior
Moreover, his behavior is deeply contradictory and, frankly, irresponsible. He hides behind the façade of spiritual enlightenment while indulging in habits like smoking—widely criticized as being contrary to health and the clarity that true spirituality demands.
On top of this, in an interview, he made a highly inflammatory and irresponsible statement: “Pura Islam khatam” (Islam should be eradicated). Such rhetoric is not only divisive but also stands in stark contradiction to the principles of true spirituality. Spirituality is a higher truth—beyond man-made doctrines and rigid belief systems. It is about seeing beyond our differences and embracing compassion and unity.
This Baba disseminates dangerous, anti-national propaganda, poisoning the minds of impressionable followers with divisive, extremist ideologies. This is not just a matter of misguided belief; it is a deliberate attempt to distort reality and manipulate people for personal gain. His actions are not only irresponsible but deeply corrosive, threatening both individual well-being and societal stability.
A Disturbing Disrespect Toward Family
Perhaps the most glaring contradiction in IIT Baba’s spiritual journey comes from his own words: “Apne baap ka vinaash toh maine swayam likha hai” (I have authored my father’s downfall). Such a statement starkly contrasts with the foundational principles of spirituality—respect, humility, and the ability to rise above personal grievances with compassion.
Spirituality is rooted in respect, integrity, and the ability to rise above personal grievances. By openly disrespecting his parents, he not only violates one of the most fundamental principles of human dignity but also exposes the hollowness of his supposed spiritual journey.
Genuine spiritual practice allows room for second chances, forgiveness, and healing. However, this begins with acknowledging one’s own shortcomings and fostering harmony, particularly within one’s family. Holding hatred or bitterness toward one’s parents contradicts the very essence of spirituality, which emphasizes love, humility, and the transformative power of reconciliation. Instead of offering a model for enlightenment, his actions reflect a deep internal conflict that he chooses to mask with empty rhetoric and misguided ideology.
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The Struggles Behind the Image of Success
Now, let’s give credit where it’s due: getting into IIT and landing a job at a reputed multinational corporation is no small feat. It reflects not only intelligence but also immense hard work and dedication—qualities not everyone possesses. However, maintaining that image of success is a different story. My theory? He couldn’t maintain it.
In an interview, IIT Baba admitted to growing up in a toxic family environment, where his parents were always fighting. This might be one reason he forced himself to become independent and found solace in academics, excelling in them and using them as his anchor. Over the years, he managed to rise above the drama, secure a good job, and even find love. His relationship lasted four years, but he confessed to a fear of commitment—a fear understandable given his tumultuous upbringing.
However, instead of addressing his challenges head-on or seeking personal growth, he chose to abandon the path he had worked so hard to build. Rather than confront his fears and responsibilities, he retreated into an Aghori persona, cloaking himself in superficial spirituality to mask his unresolved trauma and shortcomings.
Exposing the Contradictions of “IIT Baba”
The myth of “IIT Baba” unravels through clear exhibits of his contradictions:
- Exhibit 1: Blatant disrespect toward his parents.
- Exhibit 2: A complete lack of spiritual discipline.
- Exhibit 3: His failure to embody the clarity and purpose true spirituality demands.
- Exhibit 4: Spreading divisive propaganda.
These reveal a persona built on superficiality rather than genuine spirituality, making him a cautionary tale rather than a figure of inspiration.
Acknowledging the Human Side of Success
It is important to recognize that the pursuit of success—whether in academics, career, or personal life—does not guarantee fulfillment or inner peace. Many individuals who achieve great milestones, like landing a prestigious job or excelling academically, often struggle with deeper, unspoken issues.
In IIT Baba’s case, his internal battles—stemming from childhood trauma and the pressures of living up to external expectations—likely played a significant role in his emotional struggles. Instead of addressing these struggles head-on, he chose to adopt an extreme and dramatic transformation, retreating into a controversial spiritual persona. This escape is not uncommon, as people sometimes mask their internal turmoil with extreme life changes or new identities. While this does not excuse his actions, it does provide context for understanding why someone might abandon their carefully built career and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
IIT Baba’s story is a complex one, filled with contradictions and unresolved issues. While his achievements and rise to fame are impressive, they do not excuse the behavior he now displays. His actions—spreading divisive ideologies, disrespecting his family, and abandoning genuine spiritual practices—undermine the very principles he claims to uphold.
By exposing these contradictions, we not only reveal the falsehoods behind his persona but also shed light on the dangers of blindly following individuals who hide their unresolved issues behind a façade of spirituality. True spiritual growth comes from confronting our deepest struggles, not running from them. And only when we recognize the humanity behind the image can we begin to see the truth.
(Authored by Anushka Chaddha)