Madhavan hails billionaire who shares the one food he avoided for 20 years: 'It is a spiritual painkiller that turns you into a zombie...'

Actor Madhavan recently took to Instagram Stories to praise billionaire Pavel Durov, who went viral for explaining why he abstained from alcohol for more than 20 years. A video clip of the Telegram CEO, explaining why he abstained from alcohol recently went viral on Instagram. The video was shared by the Instagram page, The Billionaire File. In the clip, the billionaire explains how he made the decision to stay away from alcohol at the age of 11, after his teacher gave him a book titled “The Illusion of Paradise.

He explained that there was no point in numbing our mind with alcohol, and that alcohol was a “spiritual painkiller which worked only temporarily.” He also explained that drinking alcohol causes your brain cells to get paralysed. “You become zombies..” he explained how the alcohol kill your brain cells and they never go back to normal. He then asked - “Your brain is the most valuable tool you have, why damage it?”

He regards staying away from alcohol and other addictive substances as one of the most important decisions a person can make to build a disciplined and fulfilling life. In his view, sobriety is not about denying oneself enjoyment but about protecting the mind and body from habits that can gradually undermine focus, energy, and long-term goals. He believes that maintaining a clear mind allows people to think more rationally, make better decisions, and remain committed to their ambitions without unnecessary distractions.

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According to him, peak performance is closely linked to healthy daily choices. Avoiding addictive substances helps preserve mental sharpness, emotional stability, and physical wellbeing, all of which contribute to consistent productivity. Rather than seeking temporary pleasure or escape, he encourages investing in habits that strengthen character, improve resilience, and support personal growth over time.

He also emphasizes the importance of independent thinking. Many people feel pressured to drink or experiment with addictive substances because of social expectations, workplace culture, or the desire to fit in. However, he believes genuine confidence comes from making choices that align with one's own principles instead of following the crowd. Setting personal standards, even when they differ from those of friends or colleagues, is a sign of maturity and self-respect.

For him, discipline is a daily practice that extends beyond avoiding harmful substances. It influences how people manage their time, care for their health, pursue their goals, and respond to challenges. Every positive choice reinforces self-control and creates momentum toward a more meaningful life.

Ultimately, he sees a substance-free lifestyle as an investment in long-term success rather than a short-term sacrifice. By prioritizing clarity, self-discipline, and intentional living, individuals can unlock their full potential, strengthen their relationships, enhance their overall wellbeing, and create a life defined by purpose, resilience, and lasting achievement instead of momentary gratification.

According to Forbes, Pavel Durov has a net worth of $ 6.6 billion.