The Indian Federation of Neurorehabilitation and Epilepsy Foundation India join the world in celebrating “Brain Health for All Ages.”
By Dr. Nirmal Surya
Nirmal Surya
The Epilepsy Foundation India and the Indian Federation of Neurorehabilitation (IFNR) led this year’s World Brain Day activities in several Indian regions. With a population of more than 1.4 billion, India’s commitment to brain health has never been more important or more inspiring.
Under the theme of “Brain Health for All Ages,” the campaign was marked by a series of inclusive and meaningful events that reached thousands across the country online and in person. Under the leadership of Dr. Nirmal Surya, the message was clear: Brain health matters at every stage of life, from childhood to older age, and for every Indian.
At Lotus House in Mumbai, the Epilepsy Foundation hosted a vibrant hybrid event attended by more than 160 participants on-site and more than 250 online viewers. In his opening remarks, Dr. Surya traced the evolution of World Brain Day since its inception in 2014. He called on all sectors — medical, nursing, allied health, education, and civil society — to make brain health a national priority.
Distinguished speakers inspired the audience. They included:
- Prof. Tissa Wijeratne, co-chair, World Brain Day, speaking from Australia, reflected on the global rise of World Brain Day and the importance of lifelong brain care.
- Dr. Chandrashekhar Meshram warned of emerging threats like environmental toxins and microplastics that may affect brain health.
- Dr. Urvashi Shah and Dr. Mangala Kardile explained how lifestyle, learning, and early intervention can strengthen brain function and neuroplasticity.
- Prisha Jhaveri, an Epilepsy Foundation intern, courageously addressed stigma and mental health.
Two national-level quizzes drew hundreds of students in disciplines ranging from medicine to physiotherapy, empowering the next generation with knowledge. The IFNR Quest on Brain Health welcomed 758 participants. The MET Brain Health Quiz, led by Dr. Surya, reached business students with simple, clear messages on prevention and early signs.
As the program ended with the Indian national anthem and heartfelt community blessings, the message echoed far and wide: Brain health is not a luxury. It is a necessity. And it belongs to everyone.
India’s World Brain Day 2025 campaign was more than an event; it was a movement. And in a country of 1.4 billion hearts and minds, that movement has only just begun. •
World Brain Day activities sponsored by the Indian Federation of Neurorehabilitation and Epilepsy Foundation India included a hybrid event in Mumbai and two national-level quizzes.
Dr. Nirmal Surya is secretary general of the World Federation for Neurorehabilitation, president of the Indian Federation for Neurorehabilitation, president of the Asian Oceanian Society for Neurorehabilitation, and chair of the Epilepsy Foundation India.
