A special yoga-related song written and sung by Chandru Hemmadi, an inmate of Shivamogga Central Prison, was broadcast by Akashvani Bhadravati on June 21 as part of the 12th International Day of Yoga celebrations.

Created under the guidance of prison authorities and instructors, the song highlights the importance of yoga and meditation in maintaining physical health, mental peace, and spiritual well-being. Through simple and motivational lyrics, it urges people to practise yoga, pranayama, and meditation daily to ward off diseases, build strength, and achieve inner transformation.

The song acknowledges the efforts of Director General of prisons Alok Kumar in promoting yoga and meditation among inmates as part of prisoner welfare and rehabilitation programmes. It portrays yoga as a tool for self-reflection, positive thinking, and behavioural reform.

Chandra was a journalist in a leading Kannada newspaper in Udupi. He was named in seven cases. Sources said that he took on the sand mafia, and was sentenced in one of the cases. He secured bail, but could not come out of prison since three months due to non-availability of surety for the bail.

He was trying to get some help while prison authorities are also trying to get help from philanthropists. Inside prison, Chandra spent his time reading and composing poems.

The lyrics and composition by Chandru showcase the role of creative and reformative activities within prisons.