Homage to Our Heroes: Kala Pani Tribute

Last summer vacation we visited Andaman Island and I shared my mind-blowing experience
with the Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani (Black Water). It was a British colonial prison in
the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The prison was used by the British government of India for
exiling criminals and political prisoners who fought for the country's independence.
Today, the complex serves as a national memorial monument. The construction of the prison
started in 1896 and was completed in 1906. It consists of three floors with seven wings radiating
like spokes from a central tower. Each wing contains 99 cells, each measuring 13.5 feet by 7
feet, equipped with iron bar doors and small ventilators for light and air.
The name "Cellular Jail" comes from its unique design, which consists of individual cells rather
than dormitories. Each cell housed one prisoner and was designed to keep them isolated and
prevent communication.
The inmates of Cellular Jail faced unimaginable hardships and cruel treatment, making it one of
the most feared and formidable colonial prisons. Many prominent freedom fighters, including
Veer Savarkar, Batukeshwar Dutt, and Mahavir Singh were imprisoned here.
Veer Savarkar, affectionately known as Veer, arrived at Cellular Jail on July 4, 1911, sentenced
to two consecutive life imprisonments. Surprisingly, he discovered that his elder brother, Ganesh
Savarkar, was already imprisoned there, but the brothers remained unaware of each other's
presence for over a year.
During the Second World War, the Japanese army invaded and occupied the Andaman Islands.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose hoisted the Indian Flag in Port Blair, and all political prisoners
were released while the British officers were imprisoned in Cellular Jail. However, after the
defeat of the Japanese forces, the British recaptured the Andaman Islands in 1945.
The Light and Sound Show at Cellular Jail is an attractive theatrical representation of the life of
freedom fighters during their detention. The show skillfully portrays the struggles, hardships, and
sacrifices endured by the prisoners, leaving a lasting impression on every visitor. This show is
available in Hindi and English.
The museum attached to the jail complex offers detailed insights into the lives of the inmates,
their living conditions, and the dress, utensils, and instruments used by them. It also features a
comprehensive list of notable freedom fighters who were imprisoned in Cellular Jail.
A visit to Cellular Jail is a must for all travelers to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as it
provides an opportunity to pay homage to the unsung heroes of our freedom struggle and feel a
profound sense of pride in being a part of an independent India.
VANDE MATARAM

By Maruthy Shriram – Class 4