Noida: Diwali brought cheer to Greater Noida‘s Luksar jail as 2,800 inmates geared up to celebrate the day with diyas and rangolis.
Days of preparation saw prisoners designing intricate rangolis and crafting diyas from clay. The festivities will continue through Sunday, with special arrangements for family visits on Bhai Dooj.
“Not just diyas and rangolis, light strings too have been made by inmates proficient in electrical work,” said Brijesh Kumar, superintendent of the district jail, GB Nagar.
Some others have moulded clay idols of Ganesh and Lakshmi, which will be placed in prayer halls.
“Every year, I used to decorate our house with lights and make rangolis with my kids,” said an inmate, who has been in jail since 2017. “It hurts not being able to do that this time, but making these clay diyas here is helping me feel connected,” he added.
Another inmate said Diwali lights reminded him of the ones he would put on the balcony back home. “It’s like we’re trying to light up this place and our spirits as much as we can,” he said.
On Thursday, a Diwali puja will take place, where inmates will gather to offer prayers, said officials. Jail authorities hope that the celebrations will foster a positive atmosphere and encourage inmates to reflect on personal growth. “We aim to create an environment where inmates feel emotionally supported. Festivals like Diwali promote a sense of community and inner peace,” said Kumar.
“It may not be the same as celebrating at home, but even these moments give us hope and remind us that life offers new beginnings,” an inmate shared, looking forward to the celebrations.
On Sunday, arrangements will be made to allow sisters to visit their brothers for Bhai Dooj. Families will be granted permission to meet their loved ones. Jail authorities will organise additional security and manage special visiting hours to ensure smooth interactions. For the inmates, these festivities will provide a welcome break from their daily routines, said Kumar.
Jail officials believe these activities will not only foster discipline but also promote emotional well-being and help prisoners channel their energy into productive endeavours.
“As the jail premises light up with Diwali decorations, the celebrations will stand as a reminder that traditions can transcend barriers. These festivities are expected to bring hope, joy and a sense of belonging to the inmates, offering them a glimpse of the world beyond the prison walls,” said Kumar.
