Sahil Sachdeva, founder and CEO of Level Up PR, captured widespread attention after sharing a thoughtful exchange with spiritual leader Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The interaction, blending entrepreneurship with ancient wisdom, quickly went viral on social media.

During the Creators Retreat at the Art of Living International Centre in Bangalore, Sahil, a driven entrepreneur who leads Level Up PR, an agency focused on strategic brand storytelling, posed a personal question to Gurudev. Viewing his work as a form of devotion and guided by strong personal values, Sahil rarely follows conventional religious practices. He openly shared that his parents often encourage him to visit temples or chant mantras regularly, prompting him to ask, “Am I missing something important by not doing daily rituals?”

Gurudev’s reply was compassionate and grounded, merging spiritual insight with modern science. He first asked Sahil, “Do you feel something is missing?” Addressing the parental advice, Gurudev highlighted the proven benefits of daily mantra chanting. “Chanting a mantra every day is beneficial—it increases grey matter in the brain,” he said, citing a recent scientific study presented in America. He recounted an experiment where one person chanted the neutral word “O-N-E, while another chanted “Om Namah Shivaay”. Brain scans showed significantly enhanced activity and grey matter growth in the latter.

Gurudev clarified that strict temple routines aren’t essential. Instead, he recommended meditation and chanting as core practices for inner elevation. He compared occasional rituals to festive occasions like Diwali, where lighting a lamp brings positivity and dispels negativity. “There’s no need to oppose rituals, but don’t become overly attached to them either,” he advised. “Visiting a temple does not harm, but the real priority is meditation.”

Posted as a short Reel on Sahil’s Instagram handle @TheSahilSachdeva, the video rapidly gained traction, racking up thousands of likes, shares, and comments. People from diverse backgrounds, entrepreneurs, professionals, and spiritual seekers connected deeply with the practical guidance. Comments reflected appreciation, with users sharing personal experiences and excitement about the science-backed approach: “Work as worship is powerful, but adding a mantra feels like the perfect balance!” and “Gurudev’s explanation with brain science is eye-opening. Thank you, Sahil, for this!”

For Sahil, whose agency helps brands and startups amplify their stories, the moment reinforced the value of inner growth alongside professional success. “Balancing ambition with inner practices creates true fulfilment,” he later reflected. The exchange highlights his authentic approach to life and resonates with many navigating the demands of modern success while seeking deeper meaning.

As the Reel continues to spread, it underscores Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s enduring impact through the Art of Living Foundation, inspiring mindfulness and harmony worldwide.