IIM Bodh Gaya Hosts International Conference on Mindfulness, Showcasing Global Research and Leadership
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bodh Gaya recently hosted the third edition of the International Research Conference on Mindfulness (IRCM) 2026. This significant event attracted over 250 research papers and participants from various countries, including India, Japan, Vietnam, and New Zealand. The conference took place over two days and was conducted in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and virtual participation.
Overview of the Conference
The IRCM 2026 aimed to advance research on mindfulness across management, social sciences, and allied disciplines. The number of submissions this year exceeded 255, more than triple the number received in the previous edition in 2024. This increase reflects a growing international interest in mindfulness-based studies and their applications in various fields.
Key Themes and Discussions
The conference explored how contemplative practices can be integrated with modern research to enhance organizational performance and social well-being. The thematic tracks covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Leadership
- Organizational Behaviour
- Finance
- Education
- Decision-Making
- Sustainable Development
Inauguration and Keynote Speakers
The inauguration ceremony was led by Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, the Director of IIM Bodh Gaya, along with conference conveners Dr. Remya Lathabhavan and Dr. Tina Bharti. The event featured several prominent keynote speakers who shared their insights on the importance of mindfulness in leadership and decision-making:
- Dr. Jyoti Bachani, St. Mary’s College of California
- Dr. Vishal Gupta, IIM Ahmedabad
- Dr. Ramya Tarakad Venkatashwaran, IIM Calcutta
These speakers emphasized mindfulness as a time-tested philosophy that fosters meaningful leadership and informed decision-making in today’s complex world.
Pre-Conference Workshops
In addition to the main conference sessions, pre-conference workshops provided participants with experiential learning opportunities. Notable sessions included:
- Professional mindfulness workshops led by coach Shishir Arya
- Explorations of art, lifestyle, and contemplation by Dr. Surabhi Dayal of IIM Indore
These workshops aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of mindfulness practices and their applications in various professional contexts.
Global Collaboration and Future Directions
The closing session of IRCM 2026 featured international speakers who stressed the importance of global collaboration in the field of mindfulness research. They discussed the role of mindfulness in building resilient institutions and fostering a culture of well-being in organizations.
The conference underscored the relevance of mindful reflection in addressing the challenges of modern society. IIM Bodh Gaya reiterated its commitment to integrating mindfulness into teaching, research, and leadership development, aiming to cultivate socially aware and responsible leaders.
Conclusion
The International Research Conference on Mindfulness 2026 at IIM Bodh Gaya was a significant event that showcased the growing interest and research in mindfulness across various disciplines. The participation of international scholars and the diversity of topics discussed reflect a collective effort to enhance understanding and application of mindfulness in organizational and social contexts. As the world continues to navigate complex challenges, the insights gained from this conference will contribute to the development of more resilient and mindful leadership practices.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the proceedings of the International Research Conference on Mindfulness 2026 and aims to provide an overview of the event’s significance and outcomes.
