BHUBANESWAR: Despite facing social stigma due to his criminal history, theft accused Sanjay Swain (43) experienced a dignified moment on Wednesday when Bhubaneswar police invited him to participate in a blood donation drive. He willingly accepted the invitation and contributed as a blood donor.
The blood donation camp which was organised by the commissionerate police witnessed exclusive participation of over 50 other individuals like him who have criminal records. All of them, who were previously arrested on charges of snatching, drug peddling, assault, and sexual harassment cases among others, are currently on bail.
“This initiative, first-of-its-kind in country, is aimed to engage them with the community and encourage them to contribute positively to society through such responsible actions,” commissioner of police S Dev Datta Singh said while inaugurating the camp.
Other police officials said it is a new initiative to bridge the gap between law enforcement and former offenders, marking a significant step toward community rehabilitation.
Among the donors was an alleged chain snatcher Ratnakar Sahoo (20), who, despite his past brushes with the law, found himself sitting alongside other former offenders at the city’s 7th armed police battalion, rolling up his sleeve for a cause greater than himself.
“When the police approached me about donating blood, I was surprised but grateful for the opportunity to help others. It feels good to know that my blood could save someone’s life, regardless of my past,” Sahoo said, holding a certificate of appreciation for donating blood.
Another police officer said: “These people should take this an opportunity to reform themselves and behave more responsibly. We believe in second chances and the power of community engagement.”
Medical officials at the blood bank reported collecting over 50 units of blood during the drive. “Blood doesn’t discriminate, and neither should we. Every donation helps save lives, and today’s donors have demonstrated remarkable community spirit. The blood would be used to treat patients suffering from thalassemia,” a doctor said.
The event has garnered attention from social workers and rehabilitation experts. “This initiative breaks down barriers and helps former offenders reintegrate into society,” said Amrita Mohanty, a local social worker.
Police officials said that all donors underwent standard medical screening procedures, and the collection process followed regular protocols. The department plans to organize similar drives in the future, viewing them as an effective way to promote rehabilitation and community service.

The members of Dabba Beat
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

A motely crew of children are jamming, drumming away on their improvised instruments while one of them vocalises a popular 90s hit number ‘Azhakiya Laila’. Meet Dabba Beat, a children’s band from Thrissur, which makes music out of scrap buckets, pots, wooden slabs, sticks, plastic water bottles and other everyday objects. 

Videos of them jamming outdoors are often trending on social media, and they have featured on popular reality shows in Kerala and outside the State. Their version of Arabic kuthu from Vijay’s Beast, was shared by its composer Anirudh Ravichander, catapulting this band of drummer boys to instant fame. 

But it all started as an impromptu session during the first Covid-19 lockdown, says Indrajit P C, who coordinates the band. “Most of these children live in the same neighbourhood in Kollannur in Thrissur district and we would get together in our free time, just jamming. I filmed a session and uploaded it on social media, only to be flooded with praise for the boys’ talent. We realised the potential and formed a band, calling it Dabba Beat,” says Indrajit. 

Dabba Beat
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Dabba Beat today is a 17-member band, which performs shows across Kerala and outside. The band has drummers and vocalists and it tries everything from viral hits to melodious film songs. “It is the support of the people that we truly cherish,” says Adarsh Babu, 16, a Plus-Two student and vocalist in the band. “We meet almost every other day to practise and we always try out something that is new,” says Adarsh whose favourite songs include ‘Thala’ from Chotta Mumbai, Job Kurien’s ‘Padayathra’, and ‘Badass’ from Vijay starrer-Leo. Adarsh also plays the drums.  

What is especially endearing about Dabba Beats’ music is that it recreates complex rhythms from rudimentary instruments. Most of the drum sets consist of water cans and paint buckets turned upside down. “We stick to recycled rhythm and the band members don’t shy away from trying some of the most challenging numbers on this,” adds Indrajit.

Dabba Beat during one of its jamming sessions in Thrissur
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Sreehari KM, who plays the wooden plank, says he is proud to be a part of the band. A Class VI student, he has been playing for the band ever since it was formed. “The love for music binds us and we enjoy performing,” he adds.

Though people have volunteered to sponsor musical instruments, they stick to their identity of being a scrap band. However, keyboards and violins are added to their repertoire for performances.