In a move aimed at advancing research and innovation at the intersection of music, neuroscience and mental health, the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), in association with Mercuri Foundation, a philanthropic and research-oriented foundation, has proposed setting up a National Centre for Music, Brain, Mind and Health under the patronage of composer Ilaiyaraaja.

The proposed centre seeks to bring together experts in neuroscience, psychiatry, psychology, music, cognition, rehabilitation and technology to explore the role of music in human wellbeing.

According to an official statement from NIMHANS, the centre is envisaged as India’s first interdisciplinary national facility integrating neuroscience, mental health, music, cognition, rehabilitation and technology. It aims to promote research, clinical innovation, education and public engagement in understanding how music influences the brain, emotions, cognition and overall health.

The initiative is expected to build evidence-based approaches that draw on both traditional knowledge and contemporary neuroscience to improve mental health and wellbeing.

The patronage of Mr. Ilaiyaraaja, a Padma Vibhushan awardee and one of India’s most influential composers, is expected to lend cultural and artistic depth to the initiative, the statement said.

“The partnership reflects a shared vision of positioning India as a global leader in the emerging field of music, brain, mind and health sciences,” according to the statement.

The Music Cognition Laboratory at NIMHANS, established formally in 2011 after beginning research activities in 2009, is regarded as India’s first dedicated laboratory focused on music cognition and neuromusicology. The laboratory has undertaken studies on how music interacts with the brain, cognition, emotion and mental health.