GIBS 2025: “Decode, Demystify & Drive IC/BPS”

The 10th Annual Congress of the Global Interstitial Cystitis Bladder Pain Society (GIBS) marked a historic milestone in the journey of IC/BPS research, education, and clinical advancement. Hosted at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, on 23^rd and 24^th August 2025, this landmark congress celebrated a decade of progress, innovation, and collaboration under the theme “Decode, Demystify, Drive IC/BPS.”

The hybrid format enabled participation from across India and the globe, breaking geographical barriers and reinforcing GIBS’s vision of fostering a global community committed to IC/BPS awareness and management.

Dr. Rajesh Taneja (Chairman GIBS) and Dr. Sanjay Pandey (Secretary GIBS & Organizing Secretary of GIBS 2025) once again demonstrated their outstanding leadership in organizing the congress. Their dedication in reaching out to and coordinating with prominent speakers was truly commendable. As the pillars of GIBS, their vision and efforts have been instrumental not only in the success of this congress but also in the continuous advancement of the society’s mission worldwide. The unwavering support of the Founder Core Committee Members since the very inception of GIBS has been the backbone of this journey. It was the idea and vision of Mr. Vishal Jajodia (Founder Patron GIBS) to create the awareness and open the subject of IC/BPS in India and across the world, which laid the foundation for GIBS and continues to inspire its growth globally.

The conference commenced with a Welcome Address by Dr. Rajesh Taneja, Chairman of GIBS, who warmly greeted the distinguished guests and delegates. In his introductory remarks, he provided an inspiring overview of the journey of GIBS — from its modest beginnings in 2016 as a small group of passionate individuals to its evolution into a thriving global community by 2025. He reflected on the organization’s milestones, including the landmark Global Consensus Meeting held in April 2025, where the GIBS definition of IC/BPS was officially accepted.

Following this, Dr. Sanjay Pandey, Organizing Secretary of GIBS 2025, carried the narrative forward by reflecting on the decade-long journey of GIBS. He emphasized the society’s unwavering commitment to advancing awareness, research, and clinical practice in IC/BPS, underscoring how sustained efforts over the years have transformed GIBS into a respected global platform. Acknowledging the contributions of faculty, members, and collaborators, Dr. Pandey’s address paid tribute to the teamwork and vision that continue to drive GIBS’s mission of making a meaningful difference in patient care.

The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Ms. Sonali Bendre, acclaimed actress and author, who also launched her much-anticipated book, “A Book of Books.” Her presence added a touch of elegance and inspiration to the milestone celebration.

The occasion was further honored by the distinguished presence of Guests of Honour – Dr. Rajeev Sood, Dr. Sunil Shroff, Dr. Rajesh Taneja, Dr. Sanjay Pandey, Dr. Uttam Mete, Dr. Sujata Patwardhan, Mr. Vishal Jajodia (CMD Swati Spentose Pvt. Ltd.) and Dr. Santosh Shetty (CEO, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital). Together, the dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge, innovation, and collaborative growth.

A highlight of the event was the release of two landmark academic contributions – the first-of-its-kind Educational Video Atlas on IC/BPS and the GIBS Year Book 1, compiled by Dr. Sanjay Pandey, Secretary GIBS. The Atlas presents 50 clinical cases with videos via QR codes, while the Year Book compiles 50 key papers, including GIBS publications from 2023–2025. Both resources will soon be available in print and e-book formats, further strengthening GIBS’s mission to advance IC/BPS education and clinical practice. At the conclusion of the inauguration, the much-awaited GIBS Clinical Guidelines 4.0 were also officially released.

The GIBS 2025 Congress witnessed a remarkable international presence, with 18 international faculty members from countries like Austria, Russia, UK, Hungary, Nepal, USA, Malaysia, Iran and Japan contributing both onsite and online. Their expertise and insights enriched the scientific program, offering a truly global perspective on IC/BPS management. In addition, 5 international delegates participated in the congress in hybrid mode, further enhancing the exchange of ideas, experiences, and clinical practices.

The congress attracted a total of 150 registrations (onsite and online combined), reflecting the strong and growing interest in IC/BPS. The diverse participation of healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry representatives created a dynamic and collaborative environment that fostered innovation and learning across specialties.

The strong presence of international faculty and delegates, coupled with the impressive number of registrations, underscored the global significance of the GIBS 2025 Congress on IC/BPS. This landmark 10th Anniversary event played a crucial role in advancing knowledge, strengthening international collaborations, and promoting best practices in the care of patients with IC/BPS.

As the curtains came down on GIBS 2025, the atmosphere was one of pride, achievement, and renewed commitment to advancing the science and care of IC/BPS globally. Looking ahead, Dr. Pandey warmly invited all delegates to join GIBS 2026 in Jaipur, which will be organized under the leadership of Organizing Secretary – Dr. Shivam Priyadarshi.

Thank you all for your participation and support. We look forward to seeing you at GIBS 2026!