Meet Ben Baba: The Swiss techie who walked barefoot through 18 countries to find peace in India

Today’s world mostly lives on consumerism and digital chaos, but many others are beginning to feel the pull toward something more meaningful, something deeper than money, power, or likes on a screen.As the world knows that, India has been the destination for spiritual seekers from around the globe. Its varied paths to self-realization are based in Yoga, Hinduism, meditation, and simple living and it continues to show the path to those disillusioned with materialism. While some fly in for retreats or ashram stays, a few go far beyond. Literally.One among these seekers is Ben, a 29-year-old man from Switzerland who decided to change his life entirely.

Who is Ben Baba?

Ben, whose story surfaced in a video shared by YouTube creator Rajan Singh Jolly, once led a regular life in Switzerland. He had a stable job designing websites and offering IT services, making about 10 euros an hour. He owned a house, drove a car, and lived a life that many dream of. Yet, something felt missing.According to the YouTube video, Ben’s mother worked at a yoga center in Switzerland. That’s where his interest in Yoga, Hinduism, and spirituality began.

As he de4cided to delve deeper into the nuances, the noise of the modern world felt more like a burden. Eventually, he gave it all up, including his job, gadgets, and comfort and set out to walk toward what he believed would bring him inner peace.

A 4-Year Journey on Foot

It took four years of walking barefoot through 18 countries before Ben reached India. Whenever a country’s border approached, he’d apply for a visa ahead of time. He now lives in Himachal Pradesh, which he chose for its natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere.Ben reached Haridwar for the Kumbh Mela after a 25-day walk from Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, completely barefoot, as he remains every day. The only items he carries are a small cloth bag and a steel water pot. He does not use a mobile phone or any modern gadget.He makes his living by asking for alms and sleeps under the open sky, continuing to live simply and in alignment with his spiritual path.Fluent in Hindi, Deep in DevotionAccording to various reports available online, despite being Swiss, Ben speaks fluent Hindi, and can chant the Gayatri Mantra and sing Ganga Aarti. He’s often seen walking calmly along the banks of the Ganges.