Amrita Hospital is one of India’s most respected healthcare institutions, known for its advanced medical facilities, compassionate care, and strong commitment to research and education. Founded with a vision to provide affordable and high-quality treatment to people from all walks of life, the hospital has earned a reputation for excellence both nationally and internationally.
While it’s well known for its medical achievements, Amrita Hospital also stands out for the way it blends professional healthcare with holistic wellness, including recreational and community activities—what we might call the “hobbies” and extracurricular aspects of hospital life. These activities not only support patient recovery but also nurture a sense of balance and well-being for staff, students, and visitors.
In this article, we’ll explore the hospital’s history, its key specialties, its unique approach to patient care, and the various “hobbies” and lifestyle programs that make it more than just a place for treatment.
Table of Contents
History and Vision of Amrita Hospital
Amrita Hospital, part of the Mata Amritanandamayi Math network, was established with the blessings of spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma). The first facility opened in Kochi, Kerala, in 1998. Since then, it has expanded into a multi-campus healthcare system, including the massive Faridabad branch in Haryana, which is among the largest hospitals in Asia.
The hospital’s vision goes beyond simply curing diseases—it aims to provide compassionate, holistic, and affordable healthcare while fostering innovation in medical research and training. Its foundation rests on values like empathy, inclusivity, and service to humanity.
Locations and Infrastructure
Amrita Hospital, Kochi
- Established: 1998
- Beds: Over 1,300 beds
- Specialties: Cardiology, oncology, neurology, nephrology, and more.
- Highlights: One of the first hospitals in India to perform successful hand transplants.
Amrita Hospital, Faridabad
- Inaugurated: 2022
- Beds: Planned capacity of 2,600 beds
- Facilities: State-of-the-art ICUs, operating theatres, research labs, and robotics-assisted surgery units.
- Remark: Spans over 133 acres and is designed to serve millions in North India.
Specialties and Medical Excellence
Amrita Hospital is a leader in numerous medical fields, with departments that combine global best practices with Indian healthcare traditions.
Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery
Known for advanced heart surgeries, including pediatric cardiac procedures that have saved thousands of young lives.
Oncology
Provides comprehensive cancer care, from prevention to advanced treatments such as bone marrow transplants.
Neurology and Neurosurgery
Specializes in treating complex brain and spinal conditions using minimally invasive techniques.
Organ Transplants
Amrita Hospital has achieved milestones in kidney, liver, and hand transplants, often at subsidized costs for underprivileged patients.
Research and Education
Amrita Hospital is part of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University), a multidisciplinary academic institution. Its School of Medicine, School of Dentistry, and various nursing and pharmacy programs train thousands of students every year.
Research is a major focus. The hospital collaborates with global institutions to develop new medical devices, AI-based diagnostic tools, and innovative treatment methods. This dedication to knowledge creation ensures patients benefit from the latest scientific advances.
The “Hobbies” Side of Amrita Hospital
When we think of hobbies, we usually imagine leisure activities like music, painting, gardening, or sports. At Amrita Hospital, these hobbies take on a therapeutic role. They are integrated into patient care and community wellness programs to promote mental health, reduce stress, and support healing.
Art and Music Therapy
- For Patients: Patients, especially children in pediatric wards, engage in painting, drawing, and craft sessions to relieve anxiety and boredom during long hospital stays.
- Music: Live music performances and bhajans (devotional songs) are organized in common areas, creating a calming atmosphere.
Gardening and Green Spaces
- Healing Gardens: The hospital campuses feature lush gardens and courtyards where patients, staff, and visitors can relax.
- Horticulture Programs: Staff and volunteers sometimes organize small gardening workshops, encouraging nature-based hobbies.
Reading and Storytelling Corners
- Patient Libraries: Selected wards have access to books, magazines, and even audio content for patients who cannot move freely.
- Children’s Storytelling Sessions: Volunteers and staff read aloud to young patients, keeping them engaged and hopeful.
Yoga and Meditation
- Wellness Classes: Yoga sessions are available for patients (depending on medical approval) and staff to maintain physical and mental balance.
- Meditation Halls: Quiet spaces help in stress reduction and emotional healing.
Staff Wellness and Hobbies
Amrita Hospital recognizes that healthy, happy staff members are key to quality patient care. For this reason, they encourage employees to pursue hobbies and community involvement.
Sports and Fitness
- Annual sports meets and friendly matches between departments build camaraderie.
- Gym and fitness centers within the campus promote active lifestyles.
Cultural Programs
- Festivals like Onam, Diwali, and Holi are celebrated with cultural performances by both staff and patients.
- Talent shows allow employees to showcase singing, dancing, or acting skills.
Volunteering
- Staff are encouraged to volunteer for rural medical camps and educational outreach programs—activities that combine service with personal fulfillment.
Patient-Centered Care Philosophy
Amrita Hospital’s approach is not limited to treating the illness—it focuses on treating the person as a whole. This is reflected in:
- Personalized Care Plans: Considering lifestyle, mental health, and family support.
- Spiritual Support: Chapels, prayer rooms, and spiritual counseling are available for people of all faiths.
- Family Involvement: Families are guided on how to support patients during and after treatment.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Amrita Hospital has received numerous awards for excellence in healthcare:
- National Healthcare Excellence Awards for patient care and hospital management.
- Recognized by NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals) for quality standards.
- International collaborations with top medical institutions like Harvard University and Mayo Clinic.
Social Responsibility and Outreach
Amrita Hospital is deeply involved in charitable and community-based activities.
- Free Medical Camps: Conducted in rural and underserved areas.
- Disaster Relief: Quick response teams have provided aid during floods, earthquakes, and pandemics.
- Subsidized Treatments: Thousands receive free or low-cost care every year, thanks to philanthropic funding.
Technological Advancements
Robotics-Assisted Surgeries
Cutting-edge robotic systems make surgeries more precise and reduce recovery times.
Telemedicine
Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, Amrita Hospital has expanded its teleconsultation services, reaching patients in remote regions.
AI and Data Science
AI tools assist in faster diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.
Hobbies for Long-Term Patients
Patients admitted for extended periods often face emotional fatigue. Amrita Hospital addresses this with creative hobbies tailored to each patient’s ability.
Creative Writing
Journaling and poetry help patients express their emotions and maintain mental clarity.
Indoor Games
Board games, puzzles, and light activities keep patients engaged and socially connected.
Craft Workshops
Workshops in origami, embroidery, or beadwork allow patients to learn new skills during recovery.
International Patient Care
Amrita Hospital attracts patients from around the globe due to its blend of high-quality treatment and affordable pricing. The hospital offers:
- Language interpretation services.
- Accommodation support for families.
- Cultural integration programs, including guided city tours for recovering patients.
Future Plans
Amrita Hospital continues to expand its reach:
- Increasing bed capacity in existing locations.
- Launching specialty centers for rare diseases.
- Developing green hospital campuses with more recreational and hobby-based wellness areas.
Fun Facts About Amrita Hospital
- The Faridabad campus can accommodate more than 10,000 outpatients daily.
- It’s home to one of India’s largest pediatric ICUs.
- The hospital’s art therapy programs have produced patient artwork displayed in public galleries.
- During festivals, the hospital lobby transforms into a cultural stage with dance, music, and drama.
Conclusion
Amrita Hospital stands as a shining example of how healthcare can be both advanced and compassionate. While its cutting-edge surgeries and medical achievements make headlines, the quieter, hobby-based activities it offers are equally impactful. They help patients heal faster, reduce stress for families, and create a supportive community for staff.
By blending world-class medicine with human connection—through art, music, gardening, reading, yoga, and cultural programs—Amrita Hospital proves that healing is not just about medicine, but also about nurturing the mind and spirit.