Attraction Guide: Cellular Jail, Port Blair, India

Cellular Jail Guide

Cellular Jail: Echoes of Freedom in the Andaman Islands Guide

The Cellular Jail, also known as 'Kala Pani' (Black Waters), stands as a stark reminder of India's struggle for independence. Located in Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this former colonial prison is now a national memorial, drawing visitors from across the globe to reflect on the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. Its imposing structure and poignant history offer a deeply moving and educational experience. Construction of the Cellular Jail began in 1896 and was completed in 1906. The prison was designed to isolate prisoners from each other, with individual cells radiating outwards from a central tower, hence the name "Cellular." It housed numerous prominent Indian freedom fighters, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Yogendra Shukla, who were subjected to harsh conditions and torture. The jail served as a symbol of British oppression and a testament to the resilience of the Indian spirit. Today, visitors can explore the remaining cells, the central tower, and the gallows, gaining a chilling insight into the lives of the prisoners. A light and sound show held in the evenings narrates the history of the jail and the stories of its inmates, bringing their struggles to life. The jail complex also houses a museum displaying artifacts and photographs related to the prison's history. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to the Cellular Jail, Port Blair offers a variety of seafood delicacies and local Andamanese cuisine that visitors can enjoy.