International Conference on Thought, Perception and Reality at IIT Bhubaneswar
On December 27, 2025, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar hosted the International Conference on Thought, Perception and Reality (ICTPR 2025). This significant event was organized by the School of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Management in collaboration with the Bhaktivedanta Institute. The conference aimed to foster dialogue and exploration at the intersection of philosophy, science, and consciousness studies.
Distinguished Guests
The inaugural session of ICTPR 2025 featured several distinguished guests who contributed their insights and expertise:
- Prof. Andrew Briggs: Emeritus Professor of Nanomaterials at the University of Oxford, served as the Chief Guest.
- Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra: A Padma Shri Awardee and former Chair of AIIMS Delhi, attended as the Guest of Honour.
- Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar: Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, welcomed participants and highlighted the institution’s commitment to research and integrity.
- Shri Vasudeva Rao: President of the Bhaktivedanta Institute, Kolkata, also addressed the gathering.
Inaugural Addresses
During the opening ceremony, Prof. Karmalkar emphasized the importance of aligning institutional reality with shared perception. He stated that leadership should be guided by high standards and transparent feedback mechanisms. His remarks set a tone of commitment to excellence and integrity within the academic community.
Prof. Andrew Briggs delivered a thought-provoking address exploring the intricate relationship between perception and reality. Drawing insights from quantum theory, he discussed how subjective choices can influence objective reality. He connected scientific knowledge with spiritual wisdom, raising critical questions about the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence and the concept of moral reality.
Prof. Mahapatra focused on consciousness studies, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of medical professionals. He urged that those trained in public institutions must serve society with reflective thinking and a commitment to ethical practices.
Shri Vasudeva Rao presented the vision of the Bhaktivedanta Institute, advocating for an integrative approach that bridges science, philosophy, and spirituality. He referenced the work of philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty to illustrate that science devoid of philosophical inquiry lacks clarity and depth.
Conference Highlights
The conference was convened by Dr. Sreetama Misra and Dr. Aparna Pandey from IIT Bhubaneswar, alongside Shri Jitun Dhal from the Bhaktivedanta Institute. A significant highlight of the inaugural ceremony was the release of the Book of Abstracts, which compiled the research and discussions that would be presented during the conference.
ICTPR 2025 is set to continue for two days, providing a platform for scholars, researchers, and practitioners to engage in meaningful dialogue about the intersections of philosophy, science, and consciousness studies. The event reaffirms IIT Bhubaneswar’s commitment to interdisciplinary research and its role in facilitating global intellectual exchange.
Significance of the Conference
The ICTPR 2025 conference is significant for several reasons:
- Interdisciplinary Focus: The conference brings together experts from various fields, promoting a holistic understanding of complex issues related to thought, perception, and reality.
- Global Intellectual Exchange: By hosting international scholars, the conference fosters a global dialogue on pressing philosophical and scientific questions.
- Ethical Considerations: Discussions on the ethical implications of advancements in artificial intelligence and consciousness studies are crucial for guiding future research and practice.
- Commitment to Research: The event highlights IIT Bhubaneswar’s dedication to rigorous research and academic excellence, encouraging participants to contribute to the body of knowledge in their respective fields.
Conclusion
The International Conference on Thought, Perception and Reality at IIT Bhubaneswar serves as a vital platform for interdisciplinary dialogue and exploration. By addressing the intricate relationships between thought, perception, and reality, the conference not only enhances academic discourse but also encourages ethical considerations in scientific advancements. As participants engage in discussions and share insights, the event promises to contribute significantly to the fields of philosophy, science, and consciousness studies.
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the highlights from the ICTPR 2025 conference and aims to summarize the key points discussed during the event.
