Prison Visit
by Narendra

On December 1st 2008, several Yoga students had the privilege to accompany Usha Devi to the prison in Haridwar. The Rotary Club were hosting a special event where an ex-prisoner from Bihar was addressing the inmates. After 15 years in prison, this man had radically transformed his life and was serving his community in the education sector. His speech was an inspiration to all.

When we arrived it was immediately apparent how much respect and warmth all prison officials showed towards Usha Devi. Where she walked people affectionately pranamed, welcoming her as Mataji. She was escorted on to the stage to sit with a few dignitaries. At the conclusion of the main speech, the master of the ceremony surprised Usha Devi by inviting her to address the some 300 assembled persons and guest. With great composure she stood at the podium and spoke to the audience, in Hindi!

Usha Devi’s talk acknowledged the prisoners' efforts at creating a unique natural environment inside the prison walls. She told them that once they are out, through strong will power and perseverance, there will always be a possibility to make their life successful. She encouraged them to use their time only to do their studies and constantly improve themselves, so that they can start a new beginning. Through faith in God and themselves, they can build up their future and start a new life. The inmates and guests received Usha Devi’s talk with excited applause.

At the conclusion of the talk, Usha Devi was given an award in appreciation of the continued support of the prison project. We then had an opportunity to visit the women's section and give toys to the two children who live there with their mothers.

This was a truly heart warming experience and we all felt inspired by Usha Devi’s example of selfless service; that the expression of our yoga practice is conveyed by what we do for others off the mat.