Manipal Hospitals presents historic Sri Lanka–India open water swim by a couple

Manipal Hospitals, India’s largest pan-India multispecialty hospital network by bed capacity, has reinforced its philosophy of care beyond boundaries with the announcement of a landmark initiative — the first-ever couple open water swim from Sri Lanka to India.

Athletes Danish Abdi and Vrushali Prasade are set to traverse the legendary Ram Setu route, symbolically connecting the two nations through a powerful demonstration of resilience, unity, and shared heritage.

The announcement was made at a press event in Colombo, attended by the athletes along with Jithu Jose, Group Consultant – International Healthcare Services, and Veena Suram from Manipal Hospitals.

Announcing the initiative, Karthik Rajagopal, Chief Operating Officer of Manipal Health Enterprises Limited, said: “This historic swim reflects not only athletic excellence and endurance, but also the deep-rooted cultural and historical connection between India and Sri Lanka.”

He further noted that as India continues to be one of the preferred healthcare destinations for Sri Lankan patients, the initiative also strengthens India’s health-connect efforts, supported by clinical systems ensuring athletes’ physiological safety, cardiac endurance, and musculoskeletal preparedness.

Demonstrating its continued commitment to world-class service, The Kingsbury Colombo has partnered as the Sri Lankan hospitality partner for the event.

Sharing their thoughts, Vrushali Prasade and Danish Abdi expressed enthusiasm about the challenge, saying: “We are excited to take on this unique expedition and are proud to align it with a message of health and wellness. This expedition stands as a powerful symbol of unity, connecting two nations through sport, healthcare, and shared ambition.”

More than an athletic feat, the initiative celebrates the deep cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka, highlighting that while borders may exist, far more continues to bind the two nations together.

With a network of 12,367 licensed beds as of September 30, 2025, Manipal Hospitals is recognized for its advanced medical expertise, multispecialty care, and patient-centric approach, and maintains strong engagement with Sri Lanka’s medical and patient community, particularly in spine and oncology services.