Lucknow Central

Lucknow Central is inspired by a real incident. Did you know there is actually a band formed by prison inmates in Lucknow that performs at functions? The band, which is called Healing Hearts, was formed in the Adarsh Karagar, just on the outskirts of Lucknow. In 2007, the then senior superintendent of the jail, V K Jain, decided to set up a band from Lucknow to participate in the annual event where inmates from different central prisons across Uttar Pradesh came together to showcase their talent. Funds were raised, and 15 instruments were bought. Twelve men sentenced to life imprisonment for murder came together and were trained by Noor Mohammad, a prison guard, who grew up learning music, as his father played in a private band. The band worked hard to give a fantastic performance on Republic Day, and since then, there has been no looking back for them. From private parties to weddings, the band has become popular at all kinds of events. Due to popular demand, they learnt to play latest Bollywood hits and such is their fan following that there is no shortage of bookings, sometimes even from out of Lucknow. There is a booking counter for the band, and the members head back to jail after every performance, since they are still serving their term.