The Pakistan jail where prisoners learn classical music
Prison authorities have started an arts programme for the rehabilitation of inmates
Your support helps us to tell the story
As your White House correspondent, I ask the tough questions and seek the answers that matter.
Your support enables me to be in the room, pressing for transparency and accountability. Without your contributions, we wouldn't have the resources to challenge those in power.
Your donation makes it possible for us to keep doing this important work, keeping you informed every step of the way to the November election
Andrew Feinberg
White House Correspondent
This article first appeared in our partner site, Independent Urdu
There is a wall decorated with etchings of musical notes and musicians playing drums, guitar and the harmonium.
Next to the wall, sit a music teacher and his students. Drums, harmonium, and melodious voices singing classical tunes can all be heard. These are not scenes from a music club but a room in the central jail of Quetta where prisoners learn music and other arts.
The administration of the jail has initiated a programme of lessons for the rehabilitation of prisoners at the special instruction of the jail’s inspector general.
Azizullah is one of the young men learning music. He was imprisoned after being convicted of theft. Speaking to Independent Urdu, he said that when he first entered the jail he was full of anxiety. The caretaker of the prison asked him about his interests and when he learned that Azizullah had nothing to occupy him, he informed him about the music classes and invited him to attend them.
Azizullah said he was worried about his future but feels better after starting his music lessons.
“I came here to learn something and to do something new every day. And there is a teacher who instructs us in music,” he said.
He added that the teacher encouraged him in his studies. He has also learned the twelve ‘raags’ [classical Indian melodies] and singing.
Azizullah has now resolved to master this art so that he can make a name for himself in it. He not only plays the harmonium but also sings. He said that after his release he intends to study music and will also try to teach others.
Prior to this scheme, there was no arrangement for teaching music or other arts in Quetta Jail.
Prison officials say the activities are aimed at reforming inmates and inspiring them not to repeat the offences for which they are serving sentences. Music lessons are conducted daily in the jail and the teacher is himself a prisoner.
Reviewed and proofread by Tooba Ali and Celine Assaf
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments