CELLULAR JAIL IN  ANDAMANS

By Divyakshi Gupta

Tucked away in the Bay of Bengal, far away from the Indian mainland, in Port Blair, a prison was built in 1906 

The purpose of this prison was to imprison political prisoners and freedom fighters who were actively involved in the India freedom struggle.

Once the freedom fighters were brought here by way of ships, several atrocities were subjected upon them, physical and mental.

The place speaks volumes even in it's silence: the sacrifices of those who fought valiantly for our freedom are loud and clear even in the somber ambience.

This Jail is referred to as Kaala Paani. The term ‘Kaala paani’ was used as a reference to the Sanskrit word Kal meaning time/ death. Hence Kaala Paani inferred to Water of death or Place of death

The prison was constructed in a star shape.  Each arm faced the rear of the opposite arm and so none could witness what conspired in the opposite arm.

There is an orientation centre  with information of the history of the jail and the heart wrenching stories of injustice by the colonial rulers. 

Do not miss the Light and Sound Show held every evening, that showcases the bravery of our freedom fighters and their endurance of pain and torture for their motherland.

The Cellular Jail is a place every Indian must visit. To play homage to these souls and to learn the price at which we attained freedom.