Cellular Jail

Discover Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail, famously known as Kala Pani, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Located in Port Blair, this colonial-era prison was constructed by the British between 1896 and 1906 to exile and imprison Indian freedom fighters during the struggle for independence. The jail was designed to isolate prisoners from each other, making it extremely difficult for them to communicate or organize rebellions.

The prison originally had seven wings radiating from a central tower, resembling a starfish structure. Each wing contained hundreds of solitary cells where prisoners were kept in harsh and inhumane conditions. Many prominent freedom fighters such as Veer Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Yogendra Shukla were imprisoned here. Because of its brutal punishment system and the isolation from mainland India, the jail became widely known as “Kala Pani,” which means black waters.

Today, Cellular Jail stands as a National Memorial dedicated to the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India's independence. The site has been converted into a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the Indian freedom struggle. The jail also hosts a famous Light and Sound Show in the evening that narrates the heroic stories of the prisoners and the history of the Andaman Islands. Visiting Cellular Jail is both an emotional and educational experience that reflects the sacrifices made by countless patriots.