Pics: Thejaswi U Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jan 16: Adarsha Hospital marked a major milestone in its healthcare services with the inauguration of the cancer department and the cardiothoracic and vascular surgery department on Thursday January 15.
The newly established facilities were inaugurated by Sri Eeshapriya Theertha Swamiji, junior pontiff of Sri Adamaru Math, Udupi, by lighting the traditional lamp. This was followed by a formal inaugural programme, which was ceremonially inaugurated by Sri Vishwapriya Theertha Swamiji, senior pontiff of Sri Adamaru Math, by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Vishwapriya Theertha Swamiji emphasized the importance of food discipline and lifestyle in preventing diseases. He said indigestion is the root cause of many illnesses and drew parallels between overeating and various health issues. Stressing moderation, he highlighted the traditional practice of fasting once every 15 days (Ekadashi) and advised people to avoid street food, especially for children. He compared traffic jams to blocked blood vessels, stating that unhealthy food habits lead to such blockages. He appreciated Adarsha Hospital for upgrading its facilities and expressed hope that patients visiting the hospital with cancer would return cured, with ‘cancer cancelled’.
Sri Eeshapriya Theertha Swamiji, in his address, spoke about the evolution of medical science, noting that while earlier doctors focused on disease prevention, modern technology now enables faster recovery. He said hospitals remind people of the impermanence of the human body and the importance of living a meaningful life by helping others. Praising Dr G S Chandrashekar for his dedication and commitment, he said the launch of new facilities would greatly benefit the people of Udupi. He wished that patients visiting the hospital would be completely cured and lead healthy lives.
Welcoming the gathering, Dr G S Chandrashekar, senior consultant physician and medical director, Adarsha Hospital, traced the hospital’s journey since its inception in 2005 with 60 beds. He said the hospital expanded to 100 beds in 2008, added a new block, and started the Adarsha Nursing Institution. Completing 20 years of service, the hospital has continuously strived to make quality healthcare accessible to all sections of society. He said the addition of the two new departments aligns with the hospital’s vision of providing comprehensive care under one roof and ensuring that patients leave the hospital completely cured.
Dr Suhas G C, director and cardiologist, Adarsha Hospital, said that until now, patients requiring surgery had to be referred to other hospitals due to the lack of surgical facilities. With the inauguration of the new departments, such treatments can now be provided in-house. He added that advancements in technology allow patients to regain mobility within two days of surgery and revealed future plans to introduce transplant and robotic surgery at the hospital.
Dr Guruprasad D Rai, cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon, expressed happiness in joining Adarsha Hospital from January 2026. He said the establishment of the department was a long-cherished dream of Dr G S Chandrashekar, who provided guidance and support throughout. He informed that the department will offer heart surgeries, bypass surgeries, valve repair and replacement, minimally invasive surgeries, and other advanced procedures.
Dr Ananth S Mathad, onco surgeon, stated that a healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in preventing cancer. He added that early detection enables timely treatment and significantly improves outcomes.
Vimala Chandrashekar, CEO, Adarsha Hospital, Udupi; Dr Sukhen Shetty, consultant cardiac anesthesiologist; Dr Srikanth, cardiologist; Dr Vishu Kumar, cardiologist; staff members, and others were present on the occasion.
Dr Guruprasad D Rai, consultant cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon, with over a decade of experience in advanced cardiac and vascular procedures and a former professor at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, has a distinguished record in clinical practice, teaching, and surgical innovation. His areas of expertise include high-risk coronary artery bypass surgery, on-pump and off-pump CABG, total arterial CABG, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, valve replacements, complex aortic surgeries, vascular and endovascular procedures, thoracic surgery, and video-assisted thoracoscopy. He is available for consultation from 9 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm.
Dr Ananth S Mathad, a highly skilled, evidence-based surgical oncologist trained at AIIMS, brings six years of dedicated experience in surgical oncology. He specializes in gastrointestinal, breast, head and neck, gynaecologic, hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB), colorectal, uro-oncology, paediatric tumours, minimally invasive cancer surgery, oncoplastic breast reconstruction, advanced cancers, palliative surgical care, and HIPEC. He is available for consultation from 9 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm.
Contact:
Adarsha Hospital
Super Speciality Centre, Near Service Bus Stand
Udupi - 576101
Contact: +91 9980258400
Email: mkt.adarsha@gmail.com