Cellular Jail
The Cellular Jail is a colonial-era prison located in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Built by the British in the late 19th century, it was used to exile and incarcerate Indian freedom fighters. Today, it stands as a national memorial honoring those who fought for India’s independence.
Key facts
Location: Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
Construction completed: 1906
Architectural style: Radiating “cellular” layout with solitary confinement cells
Designation: National Memorial (declared 1979)
Current use: Museum and heritage site
Post-independence transformation
After India gained independence in 1947, the jail was closed and later declared a National Memorial in 1979. Two of its original seven wings remain intact today, housing a museum, galleries, and exhibits on India’s freedom struggle. The daily light-and-sound show recounts the experiences of inmates and the broader independence movement.
Legacy and significance
The Cellular Jail is one of India’s most important heritage sites commemorating resistance to colonial rule. It attracts scholars, tourists, and descendants of freedom fighters alike, serving both as a site of mourning and national pride. Its preservation underscores India’s commitment to remembering the sacrifices made for freedom.
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