Former BARC Engineer Embraces Monastic Life in Gangotri, Shares Insights on True Value of Life

A former computer engineer from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre has chosen a monastic life in Gangotri, Uttarakhand. In a viral video, he shares his journey from a promising career to spiritual awakening, emphasizing the importance of recognizing life's true value beyond material pursuits. His story has sparked discussions on social media, with many praising his decision while others express disbelief at his drastic life change. This narrative reflects a broader quest for meaning beyond physical comforts, inviting viewers to contemplate their own life choices.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 30, 2026, 17:10 IST

A Unique Journey from Engineering to Monasticism

In Gangotri, Uttarakhand, a captivating video is making waves on social media. The footage features a monk clad in saffron robes, sporting long tangled hair and a white beard, as he shares his extraordinary life story with a smile. This is no ordinary sadhu; he is a former computer engineer associated with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

The monk revealed that he earned his B.Tech degree in computer engineering in 2002. Following this, he underwent six months of training at BARC in Mumbai and completed his M.Tech. Despite having a promising career and a lucrative salary, he felt unfulfilled. He chose to abandon it all for a life of renunciation, now residing in the hills of Gangotri among fellow monks.

His former boss, the CEO of his previous organization, reached out after his decision to become a monk. Upon learning that he was living in the mountains with other monks, the boss was astonished and asked, 'Have you gone mad?' The monk simply smiled and replied, 'Yes.'

Understanding Life's True Value

In the video, the monk emphasizes that many people chase after high positions, hefty salaries, and wealth, forgetting that life and death are predetermined. The brief time in between is what constitutes real life. Recognizing and utilizing this precious time is crucial. He stated, 'Now I truly understand the value of life.'

Shared by photographer Mohit Panwar (@nomadic_mohit) on Instagram, this video has prompted viewers to reflect deeply. While many users commend the monk's decision, others express surprise at how someone could leave behind a prestigious education and job for a life in the mountains.

This narrative transcends the story of one individual; it embodies a mindset that seeks to rise above material comforts to grasp the essence of life.

Photo:

(Image of the smiling monk in the hills of Gangotri taken from the viral video)