Gita, Upanishads kept Suhaib Ilyasi ‘positive’ in jail

Says as a “devout Muslim”, he made sure he didn’t miss out on his daily namaz while in jail but also “faithfully read” the Hindu scriptures for solace and strength

Police escort Suhaib Ilyasi to a court in New Delhi in 2017.

A reading of the Hindu scriptures helped former anchor Suhaib Ilyasi see through the darkest days behind the bars in Tihar Jail.

Mr. Ilyasi, 52, who describes himself as a “devout Muslim”, said he made sure he didn’t miss out on his daily namaz while in jail but also “faithfully read” the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads for solace and strength.

The former TV anchor was acquitted on charges of murdering his wife on October 5.

“Inside the prison, one feels moments of endless wait, of uncertainty and insecurity. It was in those moments that I found solace in the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads,” he said.

He recited a verse from the Upanishads and said, “The teachings kept me strong, positive and motivated.”

“Today I am free, not just in physical terms but also emotionally and spiritually.”