Mysuru Prison Marks Sankranti with Message of Renewal for Inmates

Mysuru, February 27, 2026 — The festival of Sankranti was observed at Mysore Central Prison with a programme centred on hope, inner renewal and personal transformation, organised by Prison Ministry India (PMI), Mysore Unit.

The celebration brought together prison authorities, PMI coordinators, volunteers and inmates, fostering an atmosphere of fraternity and reflection within the prison campus. The festival, symbolising transition and new beginnings, was marked not only as a cultural observance but as an opportunity for introspection and reform.

Delivering the keynote address, Swami Sarvajayananda Maharaj of the Ramakrishna Ashram reflected on the spiritual meaning of Sankranti and its relevance to everyday life. Addressing the inmates, he noted that failure and weakness are part of the human journey but emphasised the possibility of transformation through sincere effort. He encouraged prisoners to use their time for reflection, prayer and self-improvement.

Presiding over the programme, V. Seshumurthy, Chief Superintendent of Mysore Central Prison, conveyed festive greetings to inmates and staff. He expressed hope that the message of renewal shared during the celebration would inspire prisoners to reform their lives and prepare for responsible reintegration into society.

Representatives of PMI at the state and unit levels, along with prison officials and volunteers, participated actively in the event, underscoring the organisation’s ongoing commitment to the spiritual care and rehabilitation of prisoners.

The distribution of yellu bella among inmates and officials symbolised harmony, forgiveness and new beginnings. The programme was widely appreciated within the prison community, offering inmates encouragement and reaffirming the possibility of positive change in every human life.

By Fr. Arul Selva