Historical Sights and Heritage

Historical Significance

1. Cellular Jail – The “Kala Pani” of India’s Freedom Struggle

• The Cellular Jail in Port Blair is one of the most haunting yet powerful reminders of India’s struggle for independence.
• Built by the British in 1906, it was used as a colonial prison to exile Indian freedom fighters.
• The Light & Sound Show at the jail narrates the heart-wrenching stories of the prisoners.

2. Japanese Occupation During World War II

• From 1942 to 1945, the islands were under Japanese occupation.
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose hoisted the Indian national flag here in 1943, declaring them the first Indian territory free from British rule.

3. Ross Island – The British Colonial Headquarters