Undertaken by Bhondsi Jail in Gurgaon and launched by Dr. Kiran Bedi, the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, Project Dhun is introduced for the inmates of the jail. The purpose of the Jail Authorities is to provide an alternative means of livelihood by allowing a free expression of creativity and talent behind the bars.
The eligible inmates are selected by an audition. Out of 2,178, only 100 managed to clear various round of auditions. A 20×20 feet music room is designed for the selected inmates to get rigorous training and practice music for a year.
“We will also enable them to open training schools to groom and harness musical talents on release,” Monica Dhawan, director, Indian Vision Foundation, an NGO associated with the project, said to Hindustan Times.
Jai Kishan Chillar, the superintendent of Bhondsi Jail, said, “We are hopeful that this project will help reform our inmates and inspire them to take up creative pursuits. It will also help them shake off the dark memories of crimes that they committed and find solace and peace of mind in music.”
Not only for building a positive atmosphere, but the project also aims to give new career options to the inmates on release. The project has already made an impact on the minds of the beneficiaries.
“I did not know I could sing so well as to be selected for the training. I enjoyed the auditions and eagerly waiting for the project to start soon,” said Suraj, a 19-year-old inmate.
“Guitar is an instrument I love. If I can master it then it will be a pleasure to teach playing guitar to others. I will also look to make a living out of it,” was Dinesh’s response, a 40-year-old who is lodged in the prison in connection with a murder case.
The Launch Of DHUN Project in the Gurgaon Prison by @sonymixtv @smritikrishna @neerajvyas @IVFoundation 👏👏 Will enable inmates learn to play musical instruments and skill them to be rehabilitated, prepare for release, check recidivism and prevent reoccurrence of crime. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/8ZTXFbQ4ud
— Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) February 17, 2018
One of the highlights of the project is ‘Dhun’ the music room, which will be conceptualized and designed by a television channel of the same name.
Don’t we all need a chance to right the wrongs in our lives?