Indian Institute of Management Bodh Gaya inaugurated the International Research Conference on Mindfulness (IRCM) 2026, the third edition of its flagship biennial conference dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research on mindfulness. Held over two days in a hybrid format, the conference brought together academicians, researchers, practitioners, and students from across India and abroad, including participants from Japan, Vietnam, and New Zealand.

The conference witnessed a global response, receiving over 255 paper submissions, reflecting a more than threefold increase from its previous edition. The strong participation underscores the growing relevance of mindfulness-based research across management, social sciences, and allied disciplines.

The event was inaugurated by Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, Director, IIM Bodh Gaya, in the presence of conference conveners Dr. Remya Lathabhavan and Dr. Teena Bharti. Distinguished speakers, including Dr. Jyoti Bachani, Saint Mary’s College of California, Dr. Vishal Gupta, IIM Ahmedabad, and Dr. Ramya Tarakad Venkateswaran, IIM Calcutta, delivered keynote addresses emphasising the integration of contemplative practices with modern research to enhance organisational effectiveness and societal well-being.

In her address, Dr. Vinita S. Sahay underscored the enduring value of contemplative traditions, noting that the “acid test of the greater good is the test of time,” and describing mindfulness as a time-tested philosophy that continues to guide meaningful ways of living and leading. Dr. Jyoti Bachani stated, “Wisdom is eternal, while AI is ephemeral,” and highlighted the importance of convening such dialogue in Bodh Gaya, the land historically associated with the origins of mindfulness.

Organised around 12 thematic tracks, the conference explored mindfulness in leadership, organisational behaviour, finance, education, decision-making, and sustainability. Scholars presented empirical and conceptual work that examined how reflective awareness can bridge research gaps and generate solution-oriented outcomes across disciplines.

Pre-conference workshops featured applied learning sessions. Mr. Shishir Arya, an IIT, IIM alumnus-turned mindfulness coach, conducted experiential sessions linking professional effectiveness with mindful living. Dr. Surbhi Dayal, faculty at IIM Indore and an expert in Madhubani art, facilitated an interdisciplinary dialogue connecting mindfulness, artistic expression, and lifestyle transformation. These workshops encouraged participants to align theoretical frameworks with lived emotional and cognitive experiences.

The conference concluded with addresses by Dr. Oleg Medvedev, University of Waikato, New Zealand, Dr. Prachi Thakur, JAGSoM, India & Sunway University, Malaysia, and Dr. Yanki Hartijasti, Universitas Indonesia, who highlighted emerging global research collaborations and the role of mindfulness in shaping resilient institutions and societies. The valedictory session included an expression of gratitude to contributors, participants, and the organising committee for fostering a vibrant platform for dialogue and discovery.

As the world accelerates in complexity, IRCM 2026 reaffirmed the importance of reflection, clarity, and conscious engagement. Mindfulness remains a core value of IIM Bodh Gaya, and the institute is committed to embedding it across teaching, research, and leadership development to nurture responsible, self-aware, and socially conscious leaders.