Berhampur: The artistic talent of a young under-trial prisoner has not only transformed the look of a sub-jail but also brought positive vibes among the inmates in Ganjam district.
R Chittaranjan, who is in Chhatrapur Sub-Jail in a molestation case since January 2017, has brought the transformation by drawing paintings on various subjects on the walls of the building.
It was Superintendent of the sub-jail Subhasmita Biswal who spotted the artistic skills of Chittaranjan, who is fondly called Chitti, while he was scribbling some art on a piece of paper.
“Seeing his talent and interest, we encouraged him to draw paintings on the walls of the sub-jail. We provided necessary materials including paint and brush to him. Now the entire area has been transformed into a beautiful place,” said Biswal.
Chitti has drawn colorful portraits of freedom fighters, Gods, Goddesses, nature and paintings depicting social issues including awareness on COVID-19 on the walls.
The superintendent further said they encourage the jail inmates to get involved in positive activities and there is no doubt that art has the power to change a person. “After Chitti started painting, we noticed a huge change in him. He has become kind and compassionate and helps others,” she said.
The wall paintings also attracted the attention of district collector Vijay Amrit Kulange who wanted Chittaranjan’s talent to be further utilised. Kulange instructed him to paint earthen pots used to store jaggery by a Woman Self Help Groups (SHG). Project Director, DRDA, Ganjam Sindhe Dattatreya Bhausaheb also instructed ORMAS to supply the clay pots.
Around 800 pots were provided to Chittaranjan and he painted those with attractive colours. Each pot is sold for Rs 7 which goes to the account of Chittaranjan.
