India, Feb. 17 -- The belief that soothing sounds can calm the mind is ancient. Today, it has evolved into 'sound healing' therapy on the modern wellness map, as Anju Munshi discovers.

'Om', the first sound in prayer that many of us are familiar with, is believed to generate a calming effect when chanted. It is considered the primordial sound heard at the creation of the universe, embodying the cosmic vibration of all existence.

Healing, practitioners say, is driven by intent, where a positive thought carries its own powerful vibration.

Some sceptics dismiss sound healing as a passing fad. "These wellness fads become short-term trends before disappearing," says Shruti De, a textile designer from Kolkata.

But experts argue that its ben...