IIT Mandi to Host International Conference on Mind, Brain, and Consciousness in June 2026

IIT Mandi is gearing up to host the third International Conference on Mind, Brain, and Consciousness from June 3-6, 2026. This event will bring together over 400 delegates, including renowned scholars and cultural icons, to explore the intersection of ancient Indian wisdom and modern science. With a diverse program featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions, and cultural performances, the conference aims to deepen understanding of consciousness and its implications for mental health. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts in various fields, making this a landmark event in interdisciplinary research.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2026, 16:50 IST

Overview of the Conference

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi is set to host the third International Conference on Mind, Brain and Consciousness (ICMBC-2026) from June 3 to 6. This event will gather prominent scientists, researchers, academics, spiritual leaders, and students globally for an interdisciplinary discussion focused on consciousness, cognition, mental health, and overall human well-being.

Event Details and Objectives

Organized by the Centre for Indian Knowledge Systems and Mental Health Applications, the four-day conference will take place at the scenic IIT Mandi campus located in Himachal Pradesh's Kamand Valley. The primary goal is to connect ancient Indian wisdom with modern scientific insights into the human mind and consciousness.

Participation and Presentations

The conference is anticipated to attract over 400 delegates from both India and abroad, with more than 250 research papers scheduled for presentation. The agenda includes 18 keynote speeches, eight invited talks, three panel discussions, workshops, competitions, and various interdisciplinary sessions that will delve into topics such as consciousness studies, neuroscience, cognitive science, yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, Sanskrit studies, artificial intelligence, mental health, and Indian Knowledge Systems.

Cultural Highlights

A significant highlight of this year's event will be the participation of two renowned cultural figures. Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, a Padma Vibhushan awardee and celebrated Bharatanatyam dancer, will be the chief guest at the inaugural session and will perform with her troupe on the evening of June 3.

Additionally, Padma Bhushan awardee and esteemed Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Ajay Chakrabarty will deliver a keynote address on June 4 and will also perform a special classical music recital.

International and Indian Scholars

The conference will feature several distinguished international scholars, including Professor Stuart Hameroff, Professor Giorgio Ascoli, Professor Dimitris Pinotsis, Professor Peter-Jan Maes, Professor Josefa Becerra González, and Professor Ithamar Theodor, representing various institutions from the United States, United Kingdom, Belgium, Mexico, Israel, and more.

Prominent Indian speakers will include motivational speaker BK Shivani, Professor Ganti S. Murthy, Professor Sisir Roy, Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay, Professor Shekhar P. Seshadri, Professor Nachiketa Tiwari, Professor Sudhir Kumar Sopory, and Dr. Sushrut Jadhav, among others.

Organizational Support

The conference is organized under the Indian Knowledge Systems Division of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, with Professor Ganti S. Murthy serving as the patron. The event is being led by IIT Mandi Director Professor Laxmidhar Behera, former INSA President Professor Shekhar Mande, Professor Sisir Roy, and Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay.

Significance of the Conference

Professor Behera emphasized the importance of the conference, stating that Indian knowledge traditions view consciousness as a core reality. He highlighted that a deeper understanding of the interplay between mind, brain, and consciousness could enhance human well-being and aid research into neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia.

A Unique Experience

Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Uhl River and the majestic Himalayas, the conference promises a unique blend of scientific rigor, cultural richness, Indian wisdom, and innovative interdisciplinary research. Organizers encourage researchers, educators, students, industry professionals, and the public to engage in this landmark international event.