International Conference on Neuroscience and Indian Philosophy Kicks Off at IIT-Mandi
Inauguration of the Mind, Brain and Consciousness Conference
Munish Sood
MANDI: The esteemed ‘Mind, Brain and Consciousness Conference (MBCC-2025)’ commenced at IIT-Mandi in Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. This four-day international gathering aims to merge advanced scientific insights with the wisdom of ancient Indian traditions.
Organized by the Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications (IKSMHA) Center, the conference has attracted prominent neuroscientists, philosophers, psychologists, AI specialists, and spiritual leaders from around the globe.
Set against the tranquil backdrop of the Himalayas, the event will run from June 4 to 7, focusing on interdisciplinary discussions surrounding neuroscience, mental health, consciousness studies, and Indian philosophical thought.
The opening session featured a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and a recitation from Chapter 15 of the Bhagavad Gita, symbolizing the integration of contemporary science with age-old knowledge systems.
Day 1 Highlights and Keynote Addresses
Prof Laxmidhar Behera, the Director of IIT-Mandi and general chair of MBCC, inaugurated the conference with a significant remark: “Without consciousness, the body is nothing. MBCC 2025 opens pathways for practical education, innovation, and interdisciplinary research rooted in Indian knowledge systems.”
Prof Arnav Bhavsar, Chair of the IKSMHA Centre, discussed the center's expanding influence, emphasizing initiatives like a cutting-edge sleep research laboratory and partnerships with national organizations such as DRDO and the Ministry of AYUSH.
Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami, a distinguished Indologist, referred to the conference as a “yagya of knowledge,” a sacred offering led by students and illuminated by the light of consciousness.
Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who addressed attendees virtually, noted: “Science now agrees that spirituality plays a vital role in mind and consciousness. Happiness is a concept of consciousness, nurtured through meditation, satvic food, and pranayama.”
A significant highlight of the day was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between IIT-Mandi and the Art of Living Foundation, aimed at enhancing collaborative research in consciousness and mental health.
Overview of MBCC-2025 Activities
Throughout the four days, MBCC 2025 features a comprehensive agenda of interdisciplinary exploration and engagement, including:
- Over 110 full paper presentations
- More than 60 poster presentations
- Twelve special sessions covering topics like cognitive biomarkers, Ayurvedic psychiatry, AI and consciousness, neuroimaging, and reincarnation studies
- Four keynote and three plenary talks by esteemed academics, including Prof BN Gangadhar, Prof Gautam Desiraju, Prof Shrinivasa Varakedi, Prof Nirmalya Chakraborty, and HH Bhakti Rasamrita Swami
- Six invited talks by notable scholars from both national and international backgrounds
- Two expert panel discussions focusing on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), cognition, and civilizational consciousness
- Two immersive workshops on dharma in Indian Katha Parampara and sattvic cooking for mental and physical health
- Three cultural evenings celebrating India's rich storytelling, music, and dance traditions related to consciousness