As we look at the history of the Diocese of Thanjavur, Rt. Rev. R. A. Sundaram was well known for his vision and dedicated service. At that time, Thanjavur lacked proper medical facilities, and there was an urgent need for a hospital to provide quality healthcare, especially for the poor and the needy. With this in mind, he purchased land at Arulananda Nagar on the outskirts of Thanjavur and constructed a building that soon became a place of care and hope for many families.
To manage the hospital, he invited the Sisters of the Salesian Missionaries of Mary Immaculate (SMMI), who had been serving in Tranquebar with dedication and missionary spirit. The SMMI Sisters are known for their expertise in healthcare and their deep compassion for the poor and the sick. Rev. Sr. Lucienne (1961–1962) served as the first superior to lead the health ministry.
The hospital began on 5 April 1961 as a maternity clinic and was named Our Lady of Health Maternity Clinic. It was inaugurated by Honorable Minister Lourdammal Simon, then Minister for Local Administration. From its humble beginnings, the hospital steadily grew, and the noble profession of nursing was carried out with both professionalism and compassion by the Sisters.
Rt. Rev. R. A. Sundaram took a special interest in the growth of the hospital and encouraged the Sisters to continue serving the poor and the sick. Although it began as a maternity clinic, the hospital later expanded to provide general medical services as well. Because of the dedicated care and the strong trust shown by the people, the hospital became popularly known as “Andavar Hospital,” meaning Bishop’s Hospital.
Over the years, Our Lady of Health Hospital became known as one of the best hospitals in Thanjavur. It was recognized as a charity hospital where the health and well-being of patients were always the first priority. The medical care and the selfless service of the Sisters and staff, along with the blessings of Our Lady of Good Health, continue to inspire and sustain this great medical ministry.
