In a heartfelt revelation that resonates deeply with seekers of spiritual truth, Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts recently shared how her journey into Hinduism began not with grand gestures or dramatic events, but with the quiet power of a single photograph—of the revered Indian saint Neem Karoli Baba (affectionately known as Maharaj-ji).
Speaking candidly on Good Morning America with anchor George Stephanopoulos, Roberts explained that her interest emerged spontaneously upon encountering the image of Neem Karoli Baba, who left his physical form in 1973. “My interest in Hinduism began after I came across a photograph of Neem Karoli Baba,” she said. Despite never meeting the guru in person, she described an immediate and profound connection: “I was so drawn to this picture of this person. And I didn’t know who He was or what He was about but felt a very strong interest… There was only an innate feeling of familiarity; there had been no meeting, no discussion, and no prior research.”
Roberts emphasized the gentle, organic nature of true spiritual transformation. When asked about meeting Baba, she clarified, “No. He passed long before I saw his picture but you know just very intriguing, and that is the way things come into our lives. They are not these big gate-crashing moments.” She added that life’s most meaningful shifts often unfold gradually, molding us over time rather than arriving in flashes of drama.
This subtle spark led Roberts on a deeper path of exploration. She visited Kainchi Dham, Neem Karoli Baba’s iconic ashram in the Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand, India—a place renowned for its serene atmosphere of devotion and stillness. There, she experienced a sense of inner peace and heightened awareness. She has also made pilgrimages to various temples in India, often accompanied by her family, to offer prayers and immerse in the sacred traditions.
Her affinity for Hindu spirituality is beautifully reflected in her professional life as well. Roberts named her production company Red Om Films, drawing from the sacred syllable “Om”—the primordial sound representing the essence of the universe in Hindu philosophy.
Neem Karoli Baba, a simple yet immensely influential devotee of Lord Hanuman, continues to inspire millions worldwide through his teachings of love, service, and unconditional compassion. His ashrams attract devotees from all walks of life, including notable figures like Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, and spiritual seekers such as Ram Dass. Roberts’ story highlights how Baba’s presence transcends time and space, touching hearts even through a mere photograph.
For many on the spiritual path, Julia Roberts’ experience serves as a beautiful reminder that divine grace often arrives in the simplest forms—quiet, unassuming, yet deeply transformative. As she continues to embrace elements of Hindu wisdom, her journey inspires others to remain open to the subtle ways the sacred enters our lives.
Go Spiritual News celebrates stories of inner awakening and the timeless pull of India’s spiritual heritage. May Neem Karoli Baba’s blessings guide all seekers toward love and truth.
Download Go Spiritual News Magazine App Now. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.spiritual.gospiritual&hl=en_IN
