New Delhi: In a recent episode of Dynamite News’ popular podcast The Candid Talk, Chinmay Pandya shared his views on modern-day challenges, growing stress among youth, and the role of spirituality in achieving balance. As a founder of the All World Gayatri Pariwar and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Dev Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, he spoke candidly on a range of issues.
Dr Pandya said his journey towards spirituality was not sudden but shaped by his upbringing in an ashram environment. He credited his grandfather, Shriram Sharma Acharya, for inspiring him to work towards Indian culture and values.
Expressing concern over increasing anxiety and depression among youth, he identified technology as a major factor. Social media, he said, has pushed people into a virtual world where identity is often shaped by likes and comments. Citing data, he noted that between 2012 and 2026, depression rose by 161% and self-harm cases by 187%.
He described excessive mobile use among children as a “major crisis,” saying it is gradually taking away childhood and replacing it with stress and mental pressure. He urged parents to closely monitor their children’s online activity.
Dr Pandya observed that people today feel lonely even in crowds. Increasingly superficial relationships and constant competition, he said, are eroding core values and meaningful connections, eventually leading to mental health issues.
On whether young people are inclined towards spirituality, he said they are, but only after their basic needs are met. Referring to Swami Vivekananda, he added that spiritual seeking often follows material stability.
He invited young people to visit Shantikunj in Haridwar, saying spirituality cannot be understood through reading alone it must be experienced.
Dr Pandya noted that spirituality is not easy. It requires deep self-discipline and transformation, without expecting miracles.
He also raised concerns about the current education system, saying it has become limited to textbooks, while real education lies in values and conduct. He criticised the commercialization of education for hindering character building.
According to him, science and spirituality are not opposites but complementary forces that together create a balanced and meaningful life.
On entering politics, he said his path is different. He cited his father, Pranav Pandya, declining a Rajya Sabha membership as an example of commitment to values.
In his closing remarks, Dr Pandya urged young people to take responsibility for the nation’s future, emphasising positive thinking and meaningful action. He concluded that true success lies not in external achievements but in inner stability and peace.
