A Historic Leap in Healing: The First-Ever Free Robotic Surgery at Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, Prasanthigram | Oct 15, 2025
In the sacred precincts of Puttaparthi, where service and spirituality have always walked hand in hand, a new chapter in the saga of love in action was scripted — one that blends cutting-edge technology with divine compassion. The Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences (SSSIHMS), Prasanthigram, marked a monumental milestone in its glorious journey by performing its first-ever robotic surgery — totally free of cost — for the benefit of humanity, transcending all barriers of caste, creed, religion, and nationality.
From the First Scalpel to the First Robot: A Divine Continuum
Since its inception on November 22, 1991, SSSIHMS has stood as a beacon of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s vision of “Love All, Serve All.” When the Institute was inaugurated, the Divine Healer Himself declared that it would stand as a temple of healing, where the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor would receive the same loving care. The hospital began its mission with its first surgery under the Divine Guidance of Bhagawan Himself, and more than three decades later, continues to uphold that sacred mandate — now embracing the forefront of medical innovation.
On this historic day, a robotic-assisted closure of an atrial septal defect (ASD) was successfully performed — symbolising not just a surgical triumph, but a spiritual fulfilment. With this, SSSIHMS has become the first institution in the world to offer robotic cardiac surgeries completely free of cost, extending the healing touch of Sai to all, irrespective of financial means.
Technology as an Instrument of Divinity
The state-of-the-art robotic system — a marvel of the “Make in India” spirit — is the SSI Mantra, an indigenous surgical robotic platform developed by SS Innovations under the visionary guidance of Dr Sudhir Srivastava, Founder, Chairman and CEO of SS Innovations. Valued at approximately ₹8 crore, this system is used for minimally invasive surgery, offering unmatched precision and control. It features a 3D high-definition vision system, a modular design, and comes at a significantly lower cost compared to other robotic systems. It has also received regulatory approval for telesurgery in India — a pioneering achievement in itself.
Dr Srivastava, a renowned cardiac surgeon and long-time devotee of Bhagawan, came to Puttaparthi with his family to perform the first case. In an emotional reflection, he shared that this was no mere technological endeavour, but a divine calling. “I used to tell Swami that I want to come back to Puttaparthi,” he recalled. “And Swami would say, ‘I’ll call you when I need you.’ Today, I know — this is that call.”
A Vision Beyond Boundaries: Teleproctoring and Telesurgery
In what can only be described as revolutionary, this robotic system also enables telesurgery and teleproctoring — allowing expert surgeons from any part of the world to operate, mentor, or assist in real time, transcending geographical barriers. “Distance doesn’t matter anymore,” said Dr Anil Kumar Mulpur (Joint Director & HoD, Cardiothoracic Surgery, SSSIHMS-PG). “With this technology, experts from anywhere in the world can reach the patient in Puttaparthi — or vice versa.” Already tested across 65 telesurgeries globally, including a 10,000 km remote operation between France and Indore, this innovation is set to redefine accessibility in advanced surgical care.
A Heartfelt Offering of Love and Service
n his address, Mr RJ Rathnakar (Managing Trustee, Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust) expressed deep appreciation and joy: “This is not just a donation; it is a heartfelt offering at the Divine Lotus Feet. What greater service can there be than to place at His Feet an instrument that will heal countless lives — especially those who cannot afford even a fraction of its cost?” He extended warm gratitude to Dr Srivastava, his family, and the visiting international medical experts from Russia and Delhi, who joined hands with the hospital’s own dedicated team for this pioneering effort. He further commended the collaborative spirit of the doctors, proving once again that Swami’s mission knows no borders.
The Future Beckons: Healing Through Innovation
This historic initiative opens doors for expanding robotic surgery into multiple specialities — including urology, gynaecology, and neurosurgery — and will soon facilitate cross-border collaborations with experts from Russia and other nations. Dr Srivastava emphasised the broader impact of robotic surgery on patient care: “Robotic surgeries mean faster recovery, minimal trauma, shorter hospital stays, and more lives touched in less time — exactly in tune with Swami’s message of efficiency in service.”
Where Science Bows to Spirituality
As the robotic arms moved with delicate precision, guided by human expertise and divine intent, a deeper truth was reaffirmed — that science finds its noblest purpose when it serves humanity selflessly. From the first open-heart surgery in 1991 to the first robotic cardiac operation in 2025, SSSIHMS continues to stand as a temple of healing where compassion is the only currency and excellence the only standard. This milestone is not merely medical — it is spiritual evolution expressed through innovation.
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