Who Was Pilot Baba, The Spiritual Leader Who Died At 86?

Spiritual leader and Mahamandaleshwar of Juna Akhara, 'Pilot Baba,' has passed away at the age of 86. The revered saint, who had been ill for some time, died at Apollo Hospital in Delhi.

His final rites will be performed in Haridwar. Born Kapil Singh, Pilot Baba gained his distinctive moniker from his prior career as a Wing Commander in the Indian Air Force (IAF), where he flew fighter jets in two wars with Pakistan before dedicating his life to spiritual pursuits, as reported by ABP.

Photo Credit: Instagram

Who Was Pilot Baba?

An announcement on Pilot Baba's Instagram shared the news of his passing, stating: "Om Namo Narayana. With profound respect and sorrow, we inform all disciples and devotees worldwide that our esteemed Gurudeva, Mahayogi Pilot Babaji, has attained Mahasamadhi and left his physical body today. We urge everyone to remain calm, offer prayers, and express gratitude. Further instructions will be provided as guided. Namo Narayana."

Pilot Baba was known for his extraordinary claims, including encounters with Ashwatthama, a legendary warrior from the 'Mahabharata,' whom he asserted lived among Himalayan tribes. He authored notable works such as 'Unveils Mystery of Himalaya (Part 1)' and 'Discover Secret of The Himalaya (Part 2),' where he detailed his 16-year penance in the Himalayas and his experiences with ancient sages and sacred science of Samadhi, as reported by ABP.

A Fighter Pilot Turned Sage

Born in Sasaram, Bihar, Pilot Baba entered the Air Force in 1957 after completing a Master's in organic chemistry from Banaras Hindu University. His flying prowess during the 1965 and 1971 wars made him famous for low-altitude manoeuvres over Pakistani cities. However, his career took a dramatic turn following a mid-career crisis, prompting him to leave the Air Force. He spent seven years in the Himalayas, eventually finding his guru and embracing a life of spirituality.

As reported by Hindustan Times, Pilot Baba, also known as Somnath Giri, was celebrated for his unique practice of Samadhi-a state of death by interment. He claimed to have achieved Samadhi over 110 times since 1976, an ability that drew considerable attention at the Ardh Kumbh. His teachings, which emphasized enlightenment, consciousness, and oneness with the five elements, attracted followers globally, from Japan to the United States.

In an earlier interview, Pilot Baba described his practice, saying, "Enlighten your consciousness, find the oneness among the five particulate elements, and the Samadhi begins. Then you can transcend death." He added, "Not everyone can grasp the method among initiates. If you are attuned, Samadhi can be achieved anywhere."

Pilot Baba's passing marks the end of a remarkable journey from fighter pilot to spiritual guide, leaving behind a legacy of profound spiritual insight and dedicated following, as per media reports.