DESCRIPTION

Welcome to the CELLULAR Jail, a National Memorial located in Port Blair, which served as a mute witness to the brutal atrocities inflicted upon national freedom fighters who were incarcerated in this jail. Completed in 1906, the jail was named ‘Cellular’ as it was entirely made up of individual cells for solitary confinement. With seven blocks spread across three stories, the jail had a central tower acting as its fulcrum comprising of honeycomb-like corridors. Today, the Cellular Jail is a place of pilgrimage for all freedom-loving people, reminding them of the years of freedom struggle. The Jail Museum is open every day except National holidays, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and from 1:30 pm to 4:45 pm. Visit the Cellular Jail to pay your respects to the valiant freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for India’s freedom struggle and relive the story of India’s fight for freedom.

SON-ET-LUMIERE (SOUND AND LIGHT SHOW)

The Sound and Light show at the Cellular Jail is a captivating attraction that narrates the tale of India’s freedom struggle through sound and light effects. This show brings to life the brutal atrocities that were inflicted on the freedom fighters who were imprisoned in the small cells of the jail. Two Hindi shows are held daily at 6:00 pm and 7:45 pm, except on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday when the second show is conducted in English at 7:15 pm. Don’t miss the chance to witness this popular show and experience the rich history and culture of India at the Cellular Jail.

HISTORY OF CELLULAR JAIL

PENAL SETTLEMENT

The concept of establishing a Penal Settlement in the Andaman Islands was conceived by the British rulers in 1857, following the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The purpose was to effectively deal with those who revolted against British rule during India’s First War of Independence. A committee of experts, including Dr. F. J. Mouat, Dr. G. R. Playfair, and Lt. J. S. Heatcote, was commissioned to survey the islands on 8th December 1857. They submitted their report to the Government of India on 15th January 1858. The Union Jack was raised on 22nd January 1858 by Capt. H. Man, the Executive Engineer who was sent to take formal possession of the islands. This marked the beginning of the establishment of the notorious Cellular Jail and the penal settlement system in the Andaman Islands.