IIT Mandi and Art of Living Join Forces to Promote Consciousness Research and Mental Wellness

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh | June 7, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has taken a significant step in advancing interdisciplinary research by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Art of Living Foundation during the ongoing Mind, Brain, and Consciousness Conference (MBCC 2025). The collaboration aims to promote cutting-edge exploration into consciousness, spirituality, and mental well-being.

Organized by the Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Applications (IKSMHA) Center, MBCC 2025 is a four-day international conference (June 4–7) gathering global thought leaders in neuroscience, consciousness studies, philosophy, and holistic wellness.

Spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, addressing participants virtually, emphasized the growing alignment of science and spirituality. “Happiness is a dimension of consciousness, nurtured through meditation, sattvic diet, and pranayama,” he noted.

Prof. Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi and General Chair of MBCC, highlighted the role of consciousness in both scientific inquiry and self-realization: “Without consciousness, the body has no meaning. This conference bridges traditional Indian wisdom with modern science.”

The event also saw inspiring insights from Prof. Arnav Bhavsar, Chair of IKSMHA Center, who outlined recent achievements like a newly established sleep research lab and institutional partnerships with DRDO and the Ministry of AYUSH. Renowned scholar Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami referred to the event as a “yagya of knowledge,” led by students and illuminated by the spirit of consciousness.

MBCC 2025 Highlights:

• 110+ paper presentations and 60+ posters

• 12 thematic sessions on topics such as Ayurvedic psychiatry, reincarnation, AI & consciousness

• 4 keynote talks, 3 plenary talks, and 6 invited talks

• Expert panel discussions on Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and cognitive science

• Immersive workshops on Indian storytelling traditions and sattvic nutrition

• Cultural evenings featuring music, dance, and spiritual storytelling

As MBCC 2025 concludes on June 7, it continues to offer thought-provoking sessions on yoga, meditation, and consciousness in both scientific and traditional Indian contexts.

???? More details & full schedule: https://iksmha.iitmandi.ac.in/mbcc/2025