Manipal Hospitals has announced a landmark initiative titled the “first-ever couple open water swim from Sri Lanka to India,” reinforcing its philosophy of “care beyond boundaries” through a symbolic cross-border endurance challenge.
The attempt will be undertaken by athletes Danish Abdi and Vrushali Prasade, who will swim approximately 32 kilometres across the historic Ram Setu route, linking Sri Lanka and India through a powerful demonstration of endurance, unity, and shared cultural heritage.
More than a sporting milestone, the initiative highlights the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two nations, emphasising that while borders may separate countries, strong human and cultural connections continue to bind them together.
Vrushali Prasade, alongside Danish Abdi, also aims to elevate India’s presence in the global open water swimming arena, a field traditionally dominated by Western athletes. The swim is scheduled for 6 May 2026, beginning at Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and concluding at Dhanushkodi in India, with an estimated duration of 8 to 12 hours.
Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Karthik Rajagopal, Group Chief Operating Officer of Manipal Health Enterprises Limited, stated that the swim represents not only athletic excellence and endurance, but also the strong cultural and historical relationship between India and Sri Lanka. He further noted that, as India remains a key destination for Sri Lankan patients, the initiative also reflects Manipal’s broader healthcare engagement in the region, including clinical support to ensure athlete safety, cardiac endurance, and musculoskeletal preparedness.
Melstacorp PLC’s Mels Automobiles Appointed Authorized BMW Importer and Dealer in Sri Lanka
Mels Automobiles (Pvt) Ltd., a fully owned subsidiary of Melstacorp PLC, has been officially appointed as the authorised importer and dealer for BMW vehicles in Sri Lanka, marking a major milestone for the country’s premium automotive sector.
Under this mandate, Mels Automobiles will be responsible for the importation, sales, and distribution of new BMW vehicles, as well as the supply of genuine BMW parts and the delivery of authorised aftersales and service operations, fully aligned with global BMW standards.
Chairman of Melstacorp PLC, Mr. Hasitha Jayawardena, described the appointment as a defining milestone for the group, noting that BMW represents innovation, quality and premium customer experience—values that closely align with Melstacorp’s own long-term vision for the brand in Sri Lanka.
Chief Executive Officer of Mels Automobiles, Mr. Anushka Polonowita, stated that the company views the partnership as both a privilege and responsibility, with a focus on restoring and strengthening BMW’s presence in Sri Lanka through high standards of customer experience, technical excellence and brand stewardship.
From the global side, Mr. Rene Gerhard, Managing Director of BMW Group Asia, noted that Sri Lanka remains an important market with strong appreciation for premium mobility and craftsmanship. He added that the appointment of Mels Automobiles follows the reopening of luxury vehicle imports and reflects BMW’s confidence in the country’s long-term market potential and commitment to sustainable growth in the region.
Manipal Hospitals Launches First-Ever Sri Lanka–India Open Water Swim Featuring a Couple
