89 and Revving: Father-Son Duo Rides to Maha Kumbh

Hyderabad: On a February morning, 89-year-old Brahmanandam Kalinathabotla and his son Aravind set out from Hyderabad on a motorcycle journey that would captivate onlookers and fellow pilgrims alike. Their destination: the Maha Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, where an estimated 40 crore people have already bathed in the sacred waters of the Triveni Sangam, making it one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.

This trip marks Brahmanandam’s fourth Kumbh visit — he first attended as a 10-year-old, later at 40, then again at 60. Now, he has ventured forth at 89 to experience the “Purna Maha Kumbh,” a once-in-144-years event. “I look forward to coming back at 102 for the next Kumbh,” he says with a spirited laugh.

A retired employee of CMC Limited, Brahmanandam recalls being one of the first Indians sent to the Soviet Union in the early 1970s under an IIT Bombay initiative. He was also part of the team that brought the groundbreaking EC1045 computer to India. His son, Aravind — who worked as a production executive on the blockbuster film ‘Baahubali’ — helped plan the ride to fulfil his father’s wish for adventure and spiritual rejuvenation.

Their journey began on February 1, covering 630 km the first day with an overnight stop in Khawasa. By 10 pm on the second day, they arrived at Prayagraj, where crowds thronged the ghats. “Though the roads were crowded, it was an incredible experience,” says Brahmanandam, noting how curious onlookers frequently stopped them to snap photos and selfies.

After taking their holy dip, a mechanical breakdown near Nagpur compelled them to switch plans. Brahmanandam returned home on the Vande Bharat Express — an experience he described as “flying,” recalling his journeys in the 1950s when India still relied on meter-gauge trains.

Even mechanical woes and decades of life behind him couldn’t dampen Brahmanandam’s spirit. Friends and family, inspired by his zest for living and exploration, are already cheering him on for the next Kumbh Mela in 2037. Should he follow through, he’ll be back at the Sangam — this time at 102 — ready to prove that age is no barrier to faith, determination, and a quest for spiritual fulfillment.