Cellular Jail, Port Blair

The Cellular Jail, a somber reminder of India's struggle for independence, stands as a poignant historical site in the city of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Constructed by the British during the late 19th century, this colonial prison was originally designed to exile political prisoners and to isolate them in individual cells—hence the name "Cellular."

This massive three-story structure, with its seven wings radiating from a central tower, was once a symbol of torment and repression. The wings were constructed in such a manner that the face of one inmate in his cell could not be seen by another, thus preventing any communication and ensuring solitary confinement. The prison complex, now a museum, offers a glimpse into the harsh conditions under which the freedom fighters were kept and the brutalities they endured.

The Cellular Jail is widely known for its infamous history. Notable freedom fighters such as Veer Savarkar and Batukeshwar Dutt were imprisoned here. The jail's architecture reflects the grim reality of its past, with tiny cells measuring around 13.5 feet by 7 feet, each designed to house a single prisoner. The complex also includes a gallows room, where prisoners were executed.

Today, the Cellular Jail is a national memorial monument. Visitors can take guided tours through the corridors and cells, which now contain exhibitions and information about the inmates and their lives. The museum showcases photographs and documents that throw light on this period of Indian history.

One of the most moving experiences at the Cellular Jail is the sound and light show held in the evenings. This show narrates the tale of the jail through the perspective of an old banyan tree that stands witness within the compound. It vividly brings to life the sacrifices of the inmates and the jail's brutal history.