How former inmates found freedom in music

Both of us—Sunil from Pratapgarh, Rajasthan, and Shoaib from Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh—were inmates in a jail in Udaipur for many years. Once you enter the world of crime, it is difficult to leave. 

However, when we joined Swaraj Jail University, an initiative that teaches inmates music and other skills, we gradually became confident in our musical abilities and saw a future away from crime. Over time, we joined SJU’s band called Out of the Box, and after our release, we founded Naya Savera (New Dawn) to continue this musical journey.

Music became a medium of reform for us and a means to encourage other inmates and young people to pursue more meaningful lives and lifestyles. People in our respective villages, who used to have no expectations from us, now look up to us and think, “If he can change his life, then why can’t I?” Our families have also developed a newfound respect for what we do. 

Former prisoners deserve the opportunity to discover their talents and reintegrate into society. To this end, we invite released inmates to join our band, offering them an alternative to a life of crime.

Every prison should have a programme where inmates can learn music and other skills. Prisons should be seen as rehabilitation and reform centres rather than places of punishment. We hope to perform in central jails across Rajasthan, inspiring inmates to see a future beyond crime. 

Sunil Maida is a core member of Naya Savera band and plays percussion instruments. Shoaib Khan plays the guitar and is the lead singer of Naya Savera band. 

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Know more: Read how India’s prison system is biased against socially marginalised people.

Do more: Connect with the band at maidasunil59263@gmail.com or ashish.shikshantar@gmail.com to learn more about them and support their work.