The Buddha not only extolled the paramount importance of robust health but also illuminated the path of compassion by tending to the sick himself. His teachings emphasised the profound significance of extending kindness to the ailing, portraying it not just as a duty but as an opportunity for others to manifest boundless empathy and solidarity, particularly within the monastic fold.
Attending to the ailing Ven. Puthigaththissa Thera serves as merely one illustration. The heirs of Buddha, steadfast in manifesting the noble Dhamma, persist on this soil, bridging the past with the present. It’s a tribute to an extraordinary benevolence that perpetuates their hallowed heritage.
The absence of a dedicated Bhikkhu hospital aimed at safeguarding the physical and mental well-being of the Sangha community is a deficiency in our nation.
This assertion stems from the inadequacy of the limited Bhikkhu wards or retreats within Government hospitals to adequately address the health requirements of the entire Sangha society across the country. However, a new Bhikkhu hospital will now fulfill this timely need.
The newly built ‘Gurudev Suva Arana Bhikkhu Hospital’ in Homagama Kiriwaththuduwa, located near the renowned Rajamaha Vihara, was established by the esteemed Chief Judicial Sanghanayake and Chief Incumbent of the Kohuwala Sri Dathumalu Vihara Ven. Pitigala Sonuttara Thera.
According to Ven. Sonuttara Thera, the hospital was the brainchild of the late Mapalagama Siri Somissara Thera, who served as a Chief Registrar of the Ramanya Sect.
“Before his demise, Ven. Siri Somissara Thera had corresponded with Kappetiyagoda Gunawansa Thera, who was residing in Japan at the time, expressing his aspiration to establish a home for the elderly and a retirement hall for Bhikkhus, akin to those in Japan. Tragically, Siri Somissara Thera passed away on June 1, 1992, before witnessing the realisation of his vision. In homage to his legacy and to address the healthcare needs of ailing bhikkhus, the bhikkhu hospital was constructed” Sonuttara Thera.
“It is especially meaningful to inaugurate this hospital on June 1 this year, coinciding with the 32nd anniversary of his passing,” he said.
The foundation stone for the construction of this hospital was laid in 2016. The land for the hospital was generously donated by Ven. Kadawatha Saminda Thera, the patron of the Bodhi Chittaswaram in Kottawa. Additionally, the gracious donors who had gifted the land to him also contributed a portion of their property for the hospital’s construction. Ven. Pitigala Sonuttara Thera expressed gratitude to Athapattuge Magillin Nona, her daughter Sandhya Kantilatha Kurunaratne and her husband Sisira Kumara Karunaratne, for their generous contribution.
According to Ven. Sonuttara Thera the hospital was constructed to address the physical and mental well-being of bhikkhus who had dedicated their lives to the Sasana while navigating the challenges of the world.
The hospital operates as a comprehensive medical facility, equipped with 20 rooms and multiple wards to accommodate residential treatment for bhikkus. Gurudev Suwa Arana Bhikkhu Hospital has the capacity to provide treatment for up to 50 individuals simultaneously.
Ayurvedic medicine
This hospital boasts essential facilities including an elevator, an emergency treatment station, a fire fighting unit, a medicine store, residential quarters for medical staff, office spaces, a kitchen, and other necessary amenities. Primarily utilising Ayurvedic medicine, it offers comprehensive healthcare services akin to those of a fully accredited hospital. According to the Thera, the process of registering the facility as an official hospital is currently underway.
Nestled within a picturesque landscape enveloped by lush paddy fields, this hospital offers a serene and tranquil setting. Of particular note is the captivating five-story building within the hospital complex, a marvel of architectural ingenuity. From its uppermost floors, one can behold panoramic views of the surrounding fields stretching out in all directions, creating a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience.
“Admission to this hospital is contingent upon an evaluation of the bhikkhu’s novice and upasampada certificates, alongside a consideration of their medical condition,” said Sonuttara Thera. “Bhikkhus seeking admission can contact us for further details. It’s important to note that we admit bhikkhus who require treatment but not only those who are severely ill. This is because our treatment methodology primarily relies on Ayurvedic medicine.” The thera said.
The hospital’s construction was made possible through generous contributions from both local and international donors, as well as philanthropists. The Sri Lanka Army 6th Engineer Service Regiment undertook the construction work. While treatment at the hospital is provided free, substantial expenses are incurred for staff salaries, operational costs, and maintenance.
The exterior of the pyramid shaped five-storied building.
In line with the vision of the Minister of Transport, Highways, and Mass Media, Dr. Bandula Gunawardene, a fund called the ‘Gurudev Swami Bhikkhu Hospital Trust’ has been established. Contributions to this fund can be made by anyone.
The opening of the Hospital will take place on July 1, at 3pm and will be presided over by Ven. Makulewe Wimala Mahanayake Thera of the Ramanna chapter.
Mahanayakas and Anunayaka Theras will also participate in the event, which will be held with the participation of Neunhaeng Bhikkhuni, Director of Jungtohmar Buddhist Hospital in Uson, South Korea, at the invitation of Ven. Katuwana Vijithawansa Thera of South Korea.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, along with prominent ministers, key public representatives, ambassadors, and numerous clergy and lay guests from both local and international spheres, will grace the occasion at the invitation of Minister of Transport, Highways, and Mass Media, Dr. Bandula Gunawardena.
Donations and contributions to the hospital are welcome from anyone interested. Starting from June 2, donations for patient care, as well as meals or expenses for monthly or annual maintenance of the hospital, will be accepted. For further information, the public can inquire via phone at 0112-853415 or 0718-395 305.
Translated by Maneshka Borham
