Ahmedabad’s Jail Bhajiya House Gets Heritage Makeover

AHMEDABAD : Ahmedabad’s iconic Jail Bhajiya House is getting a major makeover, blending the city’s love for food with its rich freedom struggle legacy. The popular outlet run by inmates of Sabarmati Central Jail near R.T.O. Circle is being transformed into a three-storey heritage-themed destination at a cost of more than ₹2.5 crore.

Located on the road leading to the Gandhi Ashram Memorial Project, the revamped complex is nearing completion under the guidance of State Jail DGP Dr K. L. N. Rao. The initiative aims to showcase the skills of inmates while supporting their reform, rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

The ground floor will retain the outlet’s popular food identity, with a dedicated counter serving hot bhajiyas and other farsan items, along with a seating area for visitors.

The first floor will feature a dining space centred around the ‘Gandhi Thali’, a nutritious sattvic meal prepared by jail inmates. Officials expect the thali to emerge as one of the major attractions of the revamped facility.

The second floor will house a special museum documenting the history of Sabarmati Jail and its association with India’s freedom movement. A photo gallery and exhibits will showcase memories of freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Mahadevbhai Desai, Zaverchand Meghani and Lokmanya Tilak, who spent time in the jail.

The building has been designed around a distinctive ‘Jailer and Prisoner’ theme, creating a setting where visitors can experience both food and history.

The transformation seeks to give the Jail Bhajiya House a stronger heritage identity while continuing its role as a platform for inmate rehabilitation.

“The objective is to promote the skills of inmates and develop a positive approach towards their reform and rehabilitation in society,” officials said.