Embracing Technology and Spirituality: Insights from Gauranga Das

At the India Global Forum held in London, a charming dialogue between Google CEO Sundar Pichai and ISKCON monk Gauranga Das captivated attendees, concluding with a clever remark that sparked joy and reflection.

A Reflective Exchange

Gauranga Das, a 53-year-old graduate from IIT Bombay who has transitioned into a spiritual role, recounted his interaction with Sundar Pichai, a fellow alumnus from the same IIT batch. Pichai remarked, “You look younger than me.” To which Das cleverly responded, “You handle Google, which induces stress. I connect with God, who alleviates stress.”

This response elicited applause from the audience, but Das’s message resonated on a deeper level. Once a metallurgical engineering student exploring the tech domain, Das is now the Director at ISKCON’s Govardhan Ecovillage and serves as a Faith for Earth Counsellor with the UN Environment Programme.

A Transformation Through Wisdom

He shared his unexpected journey by stating, “I never envisioned wearing saffron.” He continued, “Yet, the Geeta transformed my life. Our Vedic heritage holds vast wisdom.”

Addressing Global Concerns

Das also highlighted what he perceives as a worldwide spiritual crisis, stating, “Globally, 230 million individuals are addicted to social media. In India, 70% of teenagers spend seven hours online each day. One in seven people around the globe is grappling with mental health challenges.”

Bridging the Gap

Recognized for his ability to merge ancient wisdom with contemporary living, Das is also a lecturer at IIM Nagpur and contributes to several boards, including the Bhaktivedanta Research Centre and the Govardhan School of Public Leadership. His published works—The Art of Resilience, The Art of Focus, and The Art of Habits—are popular bestsellers that intertwine philosophy and actionable self-help strategies.

With a calm and sincere demeanor, Das’s interaction with Pichai encapsulated his transition from the realms of technology to spirituality: a journey described as “from technology to transcendence.”