S1 E19 | Exploring Cellular Jail, History of Kalapani and Port Blair Insights

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman Islands, has a deep history tied to India’s freedom struggle. In this vlog, we explored the infamous Cellular Jail, also known as Kalapani, which once held some of the most dangerous political prisoners during British rule.

Walking through the jail, you immediately notice the unique design—seven spokes radiating from a central watchtower, with 693 cells spread across three levels. Each cell was designed for complete isolation, with just a small ventilation window and a door facing the next row. Prisoners were subjected to inhumane conditions, harsh labor like extracting coconut oil and making coir ropes, and minimal food. Many suffered and died here, giving the place the ominous name Kalapani, or “water of death.”

The jail also witnessed historical events like mutinies and protests, and notable freedom fighters like the Savarkar brothers were imprisoned here. Later, during World War II, the Japanese briefly took control of the islands, adding another chapter to the jail’s turbulent history. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose even came to the islands and declared independence here in 1943, months before mainland India.

Today, the Cellular Jail has been converted into a museum and live historical site, with restored cells and a sound-and-light show at night narrating its history. Visiting the jail is a moving experience, offering a glimpse into the sacrifices made for India’s freedom.