Inmates got talent!

‘Creativity knows no limits’ is an adage best suited to the inmates of Delhi’s Tihar Jail. Here’s why.

Whenever we come across a new form of art or something unique, the first thing that comes to our mind is its creator. As we appreciate the creation, the next thought that strikes is that whoever is behind the masterpiece, is a person who has used all possible faculties and resources to give it his or her best. Never for once do we think that creativity can take root in the most restrictive of circumstances.

In order to change that perception, here’s an example set by the inmates of Tihar Jail, who are encouraged to take part in various activities such as creative writing, weaving, stitching, and more.

“Our aim is to spot talent and to nurture it. People have different notions about a jail, but there are equally creative people inside the premises as there are outside. The activities keep everyone occupied mentally as well as physically, and help in reducing negative thinking,” says Vimlaa Mehra, Director General of Prisons.

A new initiative that is gaining momentum among the inmates these days is their in-house radio station, which started three months ago. Although they are deprived of access to the Internet and other latest software, their spirit and creativity is not bound.

“Through our talk shows, we encourage everyone to get rid of their morbid thoughts and look at the positive side of life. We are a team of five members who take care of everything from writing scripts to technical work to making the playlists for the songs. Since we don’t have access to Internet, it takes us around three to four hours to write a script. Our shows help solve the queries of others and update them on our culture, issues pertaining to health and hygiene,” says Meenu, one of the inmates who is also the senior member of the radio team.