Honouring a legacy of innovation in neurology, Amrita Hospital, Kochi has once again advanced the frontiers of medicine. To commemorate its 25th anniversary, the Department of Neurosciences unveiled two firsts for India—the Centre for Brain Health & Preventive Neurology and the Neuroimmunology Centre of Excellence.
In a video message, Amma expressed her gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the doctors, nurses, and all others who have served in the department, alongside the entire hospital. She said caring for patients with love and compassion is a duty to be undertaken as a sacred austerity.
“It is beneficial, not only for the patient but also for the doctor and others involved in the treatment, to practice meditation and prayer. This helps the mind become more meditative and calm. Such a state aids the patient in healing and helps the doctor perform their duties with peace and concentration,” said Amma.
“The nerves in the human body are both gross and subtle. No matter how experienced a doctor may be, if they are not handled with the utmost care, accidents can happen. It is because the Neurosciences Department at Amrita Hospital carried out their duties with care and devotion that they were able to make these 25 years fulfilling and successful.”
Another unforgettable moment was the presence of Sri Mohanlal, one of India’s most celebrated and versatile film actors, especially in Malayalam cinema. In his address as Chief Guest, he described Amrita’s Neurology Department as a world-class institution that has become the pride of Kerala. It has been a constant source of support and solace for thousands, including his own family.
“My ‘Amma’ has been able to experience and share joys in the way she communicates with us—both verbally and non-verbally—over the last 13 years, all because of the dedicated support from the expert doctors, healthcare workers, and the entire team in the Neurology Department of this hospital,” he said.
“During her time here, this hospital became like another home for me. I lived right next to her room. Now, when I call her, I can hear her words and feel her affection as I rush over in the middle of a busy day. I have no doubt that it is due to the grace of Sri Mata Amritanandamayi, Amma, and the loving care provided here.”
Since its beginning, the department has achieved international acclaim with its leadership in the field, including being the first in Asia to introduce Robotic-Assisted Stereo EEG, establishing India’s first and only dedicated Neuroimmunology Laboratory, and successfully completing over 1000 epilepsy surgeries.
Dr Siby Gopinath is the Head of the Neurosciences Department, as well one of the leaders with the Amrita Advanced Centre for Epilepsy, India’s largest epilepsy monitoring unit. She is a globally recognised epileptologist and electrophysiologist
“Amma often speaks of integrating modern knowledge with ancient spiritual understanding. Neurosciences, especially in fields like neuroplasticity, mind-body medicine, and consciousness studies, are beginning to echo ancient insights from yogic and Vedantic traditions,” she shared.
“As Amma says, ‘Real compassion is the medicine that heals all wounds.’ Let this 25th anniversary of our department be a rededication to that compassion—a path where the most advanced science walks hand in hand with the purest love, in service of humanity.”
Dr Anand Kumar has been with Amrita Hospital, Kochi, since its start and is one of the founders of the Department of Neurosciences. With over 37 years of experience as a neurologist, his contributions have been instrumental in shaping the division into a premier tertiary care centre.
“Our department is equipped with basic facilities that can compete with any top neurology department,” he expressed. The event included the release of his book Chiriyil Pothinja Novarivukal—Sorrows Hidden behind Smiles.
Overall, the celebrations were blessed with the enlightening presence of Swami Purnamritananda Puri, one of Amma’s Senior Disciples. He shared, “Love makes everything incredibly beautiful. Amma strives to awaken that divine love within us, so for that, let’s pray together.”
The gathering ended with a moving cultural programme titled Bhavarasam—Where Mind Meets Art. The graceful and emotional expressions were curated by renowned filmmaker TK Rajeev Kumar and featured a musical hour led by celebrated music director Sri Sharreth and his team. As well, dance performances by the hospital’s Dr Soumya Jagadeesan and Dr Sruthi Sasikumar brought great joy to all present.
The function was also attended by noted literary figures including Prof MK Sanu and author C. Radhakrishnan. Dr Prem Nair, Group Medical Director of Amrita Hospitals, and Dr KP Vinayan, Head of the Department of Paediatric Neurology, also graced the occasion.
