Ahmedabad is set to witness the establishment of a splendid 'Jail Bhajiya Centre' for Rs. 2.4 crores.
This three-storeyed, jail-themed centre will be operated by prison inmates who will prepare and serve the popular Gujarati delicacy, Bhajiya, to the public daily.
Bhajiya, similar to Pakoras, holds a special place in Gujarat's culinary landscape, available in various delectable varieties.
Traditionally, incarcerated individuals face isolation from the external world, impacting them psychologically.
The introduction of a public centre like this provides inmates with an opportunity to engage with the outside community. Simultaneously, it offers ordinary citizens a chance to gain insights into the lives of prisoners, a perspective often confined to cinematic portrayals.
While this initiative builds upon a three-decade-old concept, the existing modest establishment is set to be replaced by an iconic, heritage-inspired structure.
The new centre will not only function as a cafe but also incorporate museum-like elements, creating an attractive and vibrant space for visitors. Additionally, the cafe plans to offer the 'Gandhi Thali' (Gandhi Meal), expected to become a local and tourist favourite.
The ground floor will feature a cell room where inmates will prepare and serve a variety of Bhajiya to walk-in customers. On the first floor, an eatery will serve the exclusive 'Gandhi Thali,' with all culinary and service operations handled by prisoners.
The building will house a museum that aims to enlighten visitors about the experiences of India's freedom fighters during their incarceration.
Sabarmati Jail in Ahmedabad, known for hosting eminent leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Kasturba Gandhi, Mahadevbhai Desai, Lokmanya Tilak, and Gujarati literary giant Zaverchand Meghani, will be highlighted in the museum.
The entire centre will be designed to emulate the prison environment, and its themed layout is anticipated to attract significant business. The previous modest establishment, where prisoners sold Bhajiya, generated revenue of Rs. 86 lakhs in the last year.
With the upcoming transformation and thematic presentation, expectations are high for the business to reach new heights.
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