Music and Yoga Programme Helps Heal Minds at Viyyur Central Prison

Music and yoga offered a peaceful break from prison life at Viyyur Central Prison and Correctional Home, where 40 inmates and 10 staff members joined an interactive wellness event called 'Aathmanadam'. Prison superintendent Venu K. directed the programme, which aimed to improve the mental and emotional health of the people inside. Meharuf Raj, the patron of the Aathmanadam organisation and a known music therapist, opened the event and led the music session. Shruthi A. from the same group also took part, while artiste Zainudheen played the harmonium. The session included popular Hindi and Malayalam songs to lift everyone's mood and bring moments of joy. The event also included a relaxation session led by yoga instructor Srinavami, teaching participants how yoga helps the body and mind relax. This gathering took place on the fifth day of the Malayalam Language Week celebrations at the prison. Regional Welfare Officer for the Central Zone T.G. Santhosh led the main function, with speeches from central prison welfare officer Saji Simon and Basil Elias.

Context

Programs like this highlight how creative arts and physical wellness practices are increasingly used inside correctional facilities to support rehabilitation and lower stress. Bringing inmates and staff together in such activities also helps build a more positive daily environment behind bars.