IIT Mandi Hosts MBCC 2026: Global Experts Unite to Explore Consciousness, Science, and Indian Knowledge Systems
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh | June 4, 2026
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi is set to host the 3rd International Mind, Brain and Consciousness Conference (MBCC 2026) from June 3–6, 2026, bringing together leading scientists, scholars, practitioners, and thought leaders from across the world to explore the nature of consciousness through the lens of both modern science and India’s rich intellectual traditions.
Organized by the Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications (IKSMHA) Centre at IIT Mandi, the conference has emerged as one of India’s foremost interdisciplinary platforms examining the intersections of consciousness studies, neuroscience, cognition, mental health, and Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS).
Cultural Legends to Headline MBCC 2026
Adding a unique cultural dimension to the conference, two of India’s most distinguished cultural icons will participate in special sessions and performances.
Renowned Bharatanatyam exponent and scholar Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam will inaugurate the event as Chief Guest and present a special Bharatanatyam performance with her ensemble on the opening evening. The conference will also feature Padma Bhushan Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty, one of India’s most celebrated Hindustani classical vocalists, who will deliver a keynote address and perform a special classical music concert.
The inclusion of these cultural showcases reflects the conference’s commitment to integrating artistic, philosophical, and scientific perspectives in understanding consciousness and human experience.
A Global Forum on Consciousness and Human Wellbeing
MBCC 2026 seeks to foster meaningful dialogue between ancient wisdom traditions and contemporary scientific inquiry. The conference focuses on fundamental questions related to consciousness, cognition, wellbeing, and human flourishing, while exploring how insights from Indian Knowledge Systems can complement advances in neuroscience, psychology, artificial intelligence, and mental health research.
The event has already attracted more than 400 participants from India and abroad, highlighting its growing international stature. Over the course of four days, attendees will engage with:
- More than 250 technical paper presentations
- 18 keynote lectures
- 8 invited talks
- 3 expert panel discussions
- Workshops, competitions, and interactive sessions
- Interdisciplinary discussions spanning consciousness studies, neuroscience, cognitive science, yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, Sanskrit studies, artificial intelligence, mental health, and Indian Knowledge Systems
Internationally Acclaimed Speakers
The conference will feature a distinguished lineup of global scholars and researchers, including:
- Prof. Stuart Hameroff (USA)
- Prof. Giorgio Ascoli (USA)
- Prof. Dimitris A. Pinotsis (United Kingdom)
- Prof. Pieter-Jan Maes (Belgium)
- Prof. Josefa Becerra Gonzalez (Mexico)
- Prof. Ithamar Theodor (Israel)
They will be joined by eminent Indian thinkers and practitioners such as BK Shivani, Prof. Ganti S. Murthy, Prof. Sisir Roy, Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay, Prof. Shekhar P. Seshadri, Prof. Nachiketa Tiwari, Prof. Sudhir K. Sopory, Dr. Sushrut Jadhav, and several other experts working at the intersection of science, health, spirituality, and traditional knowledge.
Backed by the Ministry of Education
MBCC 2026 is being organized under the patronage of the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Division of the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Prof. Ganti S. Murthy, National Coordinator of the IKS Division, serves as the Conference Patron.
The conference leadership includes an eminent team of General Chairs:
- Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director, IIT Mandi
- Prof. Shekhar Mande, President, Indian National Science Academy (INSA)
- Prof. Sisir Roy
- Dr. Anirban Bandyopadhyay
Their collective efforts have helped establish MBCC as a premier platform for interdisciplinary engagement on consciousness studies and the relevance of Indian Knowledge Systems in addressing contemporary challenges.
Consciousness Research and Future Healthcare
Highlighting the significance of the conference, IIT Mandi Director Prof. Laxmidhar Behera emphasized the transformative potential of integrating mind, brain, and consciousness studies.
He noted that Indian Knowledge Systems view consciousness as a fundamental reality, a perspective that may offer fresh insights into human wellbeing and contribute to new approaches for addressing mental health disorders and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia.
According to him, MBCC 2026 aims to strengthen a global dialogue that bridges ancient wisdom and modern scientific research, advancing humanity’s understanding of consciousness and its role in health and wellbeing.
A Unique Himalayan Setting
Situated amidst the serene Uhl River Valley in Himachal Pradesh, IIT Mandi provides a unique environment conducive to reflection, intellectual exchange, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The conference combines scientific inquiry with cultural heritage, traditional wisdom, and contemporary innovation, creating a rare platform where diverse perspectives converge.
With its blend of research excellence, global participation, and cultural enrichment, MBCC 2026 is expected to become a landmark event for scholars, researchers, healthcare professionals, innovators, students, and seekers interested in exploring the future of human consciousness and knowledge.
About IIT Mandi
Established by the Government of India as one of the country’s second-generation Indian Institutes of Technology, IIT Mandi is located in the scenic Kamand Valley of Himachal Pradesh and is recognized as an Institute of National Importance.
Over the years, the institute has developed into a leading center for research, innovation, and interdisciplinary education. Since its inception, IIT Mandi has undertaken more than 275 research and development projects worth over ₹120 crore and has established academic collaborations through numerous national and international Memorandums of Understanding.
The institute’s permanent campus, spread across the North and South campuses connected by the Uhl River Valley, has become a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation while maintaining a strong connection with its natural Himalayan surroundings.
