Detailed Report on the Grand Inauguration of Sri Sarada College of Nursing at Nettayam
The Ramakrishna Mission, Thiruvananthapuram, marked a significant milestone with the grand inauguration of its Sri Sarada College of Nursing at Nettayam on March 31st, 2025, a day that unfolded with a rich tapestry of cultural performances, spiritual solemnity, insightful addresses, and celebratory formalities. The auspicious event, spanning from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, formally commenced the operations of an institution envisioned to cultivate compassionate and skilled nursing professionals grounded in the ethos of selfless service championed by the Ramakrishna Mission. The inauguration was graced by the esteemed presence of Most Revered Srimat Swami Gautamananda Ji Maharaj, President, Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, and the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri Pinarayi Vijayan, alongside a host of other distinguished guests, dignitaries, and community members.
The inaugural proceedings began with a captivating Pancharimelam performance by the renowned Thrissur Vadya Gurukulam. The resonant synergy of the five traditional percussion instruments – Chenda, Maddalam, Ilathalam, Edakka, and Comb – created an electrifying and culturally immersive atmosphere, setting an auspicious tone for the day. This was followed by a soul-stirring prayer song, a harmonious offering presented by the students of the newly inaugurated Sri Sarada College of Nursing and the existing School of Nursing. Their devotional rendition imbued the venue with a sense of peace, hope, and spiritual reverence.
The formal welcome address was delivered by Swami Mokshavratananda, the Adhyaksha of Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama, Thiruvananthapuram. In his heartfelt address, Swamiji expressed profound gratitude to Most Revered Srimat Swami Gautamananda Ji Maharaj for his gracious presence and blessings. He extended a warm welcome to the Honourable Chief Minister, all other distinguished guests, and the assembled gathering. Furthermore, he recounted the humble beginnings and the dedicated journey of the School of Nursing, eloquently tracing its evolution into the establishment of the Sri Sarada College of Nursing, highlighting the vision and perseverance that brought this significant institution to fruition.
Prof. Dr. Kochuthresiamma Thomas, the Principal of Sri Sarada College of Nursing, then presented a comprehensive report, offering a detailed overview of the establishment of the nursing college. She articulated the institution’s overarching vision, its core mission to provide quality nursing education, and its ambitious future goals. Dr. Thomas also proudly highlighted the college’s initial achievements in fostering academic excellence and reiterated its unwavering commitment to maintaining high educational standards, nurturing essential skills, and cultivating well-rounded nursing professionals imbued with empathy and competence.
Adding a spiritual dimension to the proceedings, Srimat Swami Sarvalokananda, Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission, New Delhi, addressed the gathering with profound words of wisdom and spiritual insight. His speech underscored the intrinsic importance of selfless service and unwavering dedication in both the medical and spiritual domains. Swamiji passionately encouraged the aspiring students and the dedicated faculty of the nursing college to wholeheartedly embrace the path of selflessness and compassion as guiding principles in their future healthcare careers, emphasizing the transformative power of service.
A symbolic and significant moment was the traditional Lamp Lighting Ceremony, held at 10:30 AM, formally marking the inauguration of the Nursing College. This time-honored ritual symbolized the dispelling of ignorance through the radiant light of knowledge. The ceremony was graced by the joint participation of several distinguished dignitaries, including the Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri Pinarayi Vijayan; Most Revered Srimat Swami Gauthamananda Ji Maharaj; Swami Mokshavratananda; Prof. Dr. Mohanan Kunnumal, Vice Chancellor of KUHS; Prof. Dr. Kochuthresiamma Thomas; Adv. V.K. Prasanth, MLA; and other esteemed guests. Their collective act of lighting the ceremonial lamp signified the formal commencement of the college’s academic journey, heralding a new era of education and learning.
The Honourable Chief Minister of Kerala, Sri Pinarayi Vijayan, delivered an inspiring inaugural address, emphasizing the pivotal role of healthcare education in the collective pursuit of a healthier and more progressive society. He articulated the state government’s ongoing commitment and dedicated efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and elevate the quality of nursing education across Kerala. His encouraging words resonated deeply with the audience, and he assured the institution of the government’s continued support in its noble endeavors.
Most Revered Srimat Swami Gautamananda Ji Maharaj, in his profound Benedictory address, offered invaluable spiritual insights into the crucial intersection of spirituality and healthcare. He eloquently articulated the core principles of the Ramakrishna Mission, with a particular emphasis on the paramount importance of selfless service to humanity as a pathway to both personal and collective well-being. Swamiji earnestly encouraged the students to wholeheartedly embrace the path of service with unwavering devotion, unwavering integrity, and profound humility. Drawing upon the timeless and inspiring teachings of Swami Vivekananda, he shared profound thoughts that reinforced the mission’s enduring focus on service as a potent means of spiritual growth and fostering genuine human connection.
The event also featured greeting addresses from esteemed public figures. Adv. V.K. Prasanth, the Honourable MLA, highlighted the critical importance of holistic education in shaping well-rounded individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to society. He acknowledged the growing and pressing need for highly skilled healthcare professionals in the region and underscored the vital role that institutions like Sri Sarada College of Nursing play in effectively meeting this increasing demand. Prof. Dr. Mohanan Kunnumal, the Vice Chancellor of KUHS, extended his heartfelt felicitations on the inauguration of Sri Sarada College of Nursing, emphasizing the profound significance of this momentous occasion. He spoke with admiration about the compassionate care consistently provided by SRK Hospital and noted with appreciation that this exemplary spirit of compassion is being thoughtfully passed down to the next generation of healthcare providers through the establishment of the nursing college. He highlighted the strategic importance of establishing a new nursing college to perpetuate this noble tradition of care and service. Dr. Kunnumal also provided an overview of the current landscape of nursing education in Kerala and expressed his strong optimism for the significant contributions that the new college will undoubtedly make to the field. He concluded by extending his best wishes for the enduring success of Sri Sarada College of Nursing, expressing his confident hope that it will play a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders and practitioners of healthcare.
In a recorded video message, the Honourable Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Sri J.P. Nadda, conveyed his sincere regret for his inability to attend the inauguration of the Nursing College in person due to the ongoing Parliament session. Despite his physical absence, he conveyed his warmest and most heartfelt best wishes for the resounding success of the event and the future of the institution. In his message, Shri Nadda eloquently spoke about the core ideals of the Sri Ramakrishna Mission, particularly its unwavering focus on both spiritual liberation and the provision of high-quality and accessible healthcare for all. He highlighted the remarkable and inspiring journey of the Sri Ramakrishna Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, recalling its humble beginnings as a small dispensary under the visionary leadership of Swami Tapasyanandaji and its subsequent evolution into a well-regarded institution providing exceptional medical care. The Minister lauded the hospital’s consistent efforts in delivering outstanding medical services, which he recognized as a true reflection of the core values and principles of the Ramakrishna Mission. He concluded his message by extending his best wishes to the entire organization, expressing his firm confidence in its continued success, growth, and progress in serving the community.
A significant milestone in the institution’s journey was marked by the launch of the official college magazine, aptly titled “Saradakripa.” This inaugural issue serves as a valuable compilation of insightful articles that thoughtfully highlight the inspiring journey of the Sri Ramakrishna Hospital, the dedicated development of the School of Nursing, and the promising growth of the newly established College of Nursing. The auspicious magazine was formally released by the Most Revered Srimat Swami Gautamananda Ji Maharaj.
Adding a local perspective, Nanda Bhargav, the esteemed Ward Councillor of Nettayam, addressed the gathering, expressing his profound pride and joy on this momentous day for the entire community. He eloquently noted that the presence of such eminent personalities made it a truly proud occasion for Nettayam. Councillor Bhargav spoke with deep admiration about the selfless service and unwavering love consistently extended by Sri Ramakrishna Hospital, acknowledging its significant and positive contribution to the region’s healthcare landscape. He also extended his heartfelt best wishes to Sri Sarada College of Nursing, expressing his optimistic hopes for the institution’s continued success, sustained growth, and positive impact on the community. He emphasized the critical importance of both quality education and dedicated service in the healthcare sector, wishing the college and its aspiring students a bright and prosperous future.
The renowned musician, Prof. Dr. Omanakutty, who was recently conferred the prestigious Padma Award, was specially felicitated on this auspicious occasion. In her gracious address, she shared reflections on her long and inspiring journey in the field of music and conveyed her heartfelt wishes for the continued success and flourishing of the College of Nursing. To commemorate the event and add a spiritual resonance, she rendered a beautiful and moving Devi Shloka.
Several individuals who made significant contributions to the establishment of the college were also felicitated, including Sri Srikumar V, Center Head of Tata Elxsi; Shri Shelgikar, Secretary of G Tech; CA Shri Shelgikar from the Beneficence Mumbai Foundation; and Arch. Sudhir, Honorary Architect from the Architect Consortium in Thiruvananthapuram. Each of them expressed their immense happiness and pride in their collaboration with the Sri Ramakrishna Mission and their privilege in offering their support for the construction of the college building. They all conveyed their heartfelt wishes for the continued success and future growth of the College of Nursing and pledged their ongoing support for the institution’s future endeavors.
A symbolic and historic moment was the unveiling of the plaque of the Sri Sarada College of Nursing building by the Most Revered Srimat Swami Gauthamananda Ji Maharaj, officially marking an important milestone in the institution’s history and signifying its physical establishment.
Recognizing academic excellence, an Award Ceremony was held to honor the top-performing students of the 1st and 2nd batches, acknowledging the first, second, and third positions in each semester. The prestigious prizes were presented by Prof. Dr. Mohanan Kunnummal, Vice Chancellor of KUHS.
Adding further prominence to the event, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Tourism, Government of India, Sri Suresh Gopi, graced the function with his presence. He paid his respects by reverently offering flowers to the portraits of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, and Lord Padmanabhaswamy. He also toured the newly constructed college building, expressing his appreciation for the well-organized event and the impressive infrastructure of the institution.
The formal vote of thanks was delivered with heartfelt sincerity by Prof. Dr. Kumari Haripriya O.B., the Vice Principal of Sri Sarada College of Nursing. She expressed profound gratitude to all the distinguished dignitaries, esteemed guests, dedicated faculty, enthusiastic students, and every individual who contributed their time, effort, and support in making the inauguration a resounding success. Her moving words acknowledged the collective efforts of all stakeholders and conveyed a strong sense of optimism for a bright and promising future for the college.
The cultural segment of the inauguration continued with a captivating Nangyarkoothu performance by the renowned Kalamandalam artist, Dr. Kalamandalam Krishnendhu. The chosen theme for this classical Kerala performing art form, known for its vibrant storytelling, elaborate gestures, and expressive facial movements, was Poothanamoksham. The performing artists expressed their sincere gratitude for the opportunity to present this traditional art form on such an auspicious occasion.
The public meeting segment of the day commenced at 2:45 PM with a fascinating and insightful presentation on “Exploring the Human Brain” by Swami Narasimhananda, the Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Sevashrama, Kozhikode. During his engaging session, Swami Narasimhananda brought an actual human brain specimen, providing the captivated audience with an in-depth exploration of its intricate structure and complex functions, offering profound insights into the marvels of the human anatomy.
The cultural program continued with a graceful Mohiniyattam performance by the talented Kalamandalam artists. Their performance commenced with the traditional Ganapathi sthuthi, followed by the beautiful Ashta Lakshmi Krithi composed by Swathi Thirunal Maharaja. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the students of Sri Sarada College of Nursing presented a lively and dynamic dance performance, showcasing their artistic talents and infectious enthusiasm, which was met with enthusiastic applause from the appreciative audience.
As the day transitioned into evening, a peaceful and devotional Bhajan and Aratrikam session was held at the sacred Sri Ramakrishna Temple. Devotees gathered in a spirit of unity and reverence to partake in this holy occasion, which included the melodious chanting of devotional songs and heartfelt offerings dedicated to Lord Ramakrishna. The atmosphere within the temple was imbued with profound spiritual energy as the melodious bhajans resonated, creating a serene and uplifting environment for all present.
The cultural offerings concluded with a soulful performance of Hindustani classical music by Ms. Abradita Maitra Banerjee from Thiruvananthapuram. Her enchanting melodious voice captivated the audience, and her performance featured several beautiful compositions that showcased the depth and richness of Hindustani classical music tradition.
The entire inauguration event was skillfully and gracefully compered by a team comprising Swami Narasimhananda, the Secretary of the Ramakrishna Mission Sevashrama in Kozhikode; Prof. Dr. Kumari Haripriya O.B., Vice Principal of Sri Sarada College of Nursing; Lt. Col. Ajithakumari. T. Y., Professor at Sri Sarada College of Nursing; and Mrs. Sridivya, Principal of SRK Sarada School of Nursing. Their seamless coordination and eloquent narration ensured the smooth flow and engaging nature of the day’s proceedings.
The grand inaugural function reached its successful culmination at 9:00 PM, marking the end of a truly memorable and deeply inspiring day that celebrated the commencement of a promising new chapter in nursing education under the compassionate and service-oriented umbrella of the Ramakrishna Mission.
