The ashram was established in 1964 by Neem Karoli Baba, who lived and taught here until his mahasamadhi (passing) in 1973. The land was donated by a local devotee. The famous 'Kainchi' (scissors) structure — two large metal arches forming a V-shape over the temple — was built at Maharaj-ji's instruction, giving the ashram its distinctive name. In 1974, a young Steve Jobs traveled to India and spent time at the ashram seeking spiritual guidance shortly before co-founding Apple.
The ashram has since become a global pilgrimage site, with devotees including celebrities, entrepreneurs, and spiritual seekers from around the world.
