Feeding Souls Behind Bars

At the Monrovia Central Prison, behind the concrete walls and steel bars, there’s a tradition that brings hope and warmth to the imprisoned souls. Every year, as Upjit Singh Sachdeva celebrates his birthday, he turns the spotlight away from himself and towards those often forgotten by society, the inmates (prisoners).

Instead of lavish parties or extravagant gifts, Sachdeva has chosen to mark his special day by feeding the hungry, both in body and spirit. His monthly visit to the prison has become a beacon of compassion and humanity, reminding everyone that every individual, no matter their circumstances, deserves dignity and care.

For Jeety, as he is popularly known, this isn’t about mere charity; it’s a calling, a tradition that began as a simple act of kindness and has now become an unwavering commitment. “This is my regular routine,” he says with a humble smile. “When I come here, I urge people to feed their neighbors or those who sleep hungry. If each one of us does our part, hunger can be eradicated.”

The menu was as special as the occasion: rice with beans, chicken, and water. But that’s not all. Responding to a recent request from the prison superintendent, Upjit and his team have also brought plates, cupcakes, and soft drinks. 

“Government resources are limited,” he notes. “So, we try to come here once a month to ensure these inmates get a hot meal.”

Last year, Sachdeva and his team rehabilitated the prison’s water system, and they brought in chlorine for the system when the superintendent called on him and told him about the constraints they were facing.

His dedication to go beyond feeding, to also improving the living conditions of the inmates, has received widespread commendation.

However, Sachdeva has fed over 1,476 inmates within the Monrovia Central Prison with hot, nourishing meals.

Varney Lake, superintendent of the Monrovia Central Prison, extends heartfelt gratitude to Sachdeva for his continued kind gesture to the prison.

“Normally, he does this every month,” Lake says. “But this time, he called me just two days ago and said he wanted to celebrate his birthday here. It was an impromptu plan, but we welcomed you wholeheartedly.

“As he enters a new age, we pray that his humanitarian strength will only increase. Every time we call on him, he comes to our aid. This time, it's him reaching out to us. Thank you ever so much, Mr. Jeety,” Lake said.

Jeety’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “You should not give to get; give to inspire others.” And inspire, he does. His actions serve as a reminder that kindness knows no bounds and that a single act of generosity can touch countless lives.

As the inmates enjoy their meal, there’s a palpable sense of gratitude in the air. Upjit's birthday may come once a year, but his spirit of giving is a daily celebration. And for the inmates of Monrovia Central Prison, that’s the greatest gift of all.

Meanwhile, Sachdeva also celebrated his birthday with the at-risk-youth of Center Street in Monrovia, where he fed over 700 at-risk-youth.