Interesting Facts about Kalapani

"Kala Pani" refers to the Cellular Jail, a notorious prison in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, during British colonial rule. Here are some interesting facts:-

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1. Isolation: "Kala Pani" translates to "Black Water" and symbolizes the remote and isolated location of the Cellular Jail.

2. Construction: The jail was constructed between 1896 and 1906 to imprison political dissidents and freedom fighters during India's struggle for independence.

3. Architecture: The jail was designed in a cellular structure, with seven wings spreading out from a central watchtower. This allowed for solitary confinement of prisoners.

4. Purpose: Cellular Jail was specifically designed to break the spirit of the political prisoners by isolating them from each other and subjecting them to harsh living conditions.

5. Light and Ventilation: The design of the cells aimed at minimal light and ventilation, contributing to the harsh and oppressive environment.

6. Notable Inmates: Many prominent freedom fighters, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Batukeshwar Dutt, were incarcerated in Cellular Jail.

7. Mutiny: In 1933, the prisoners staged a hunger strike and protest known as the Kalapani Mutiny, demanding better conditions and rights.

8. Independence Movement: Cellular Jail became a symbol of India's struggle for freedom, with its inmates enduring immense hardships in their quest for independence.

9. Light and Sound Show: Today, Cellular Jail is a national memorial, and a light and sound show is conducted in the evenings, narrating the history and stories of the freedom fighters.

10. Port Blair: The jail is located in Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and is a significant historical site.

11. National Memorial: In 1969, Cellular Jail was declared a national memorial to honor the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters imprisoned there.

12. Replica: A replica of the Cellular Jail was constructed in the Tihar Jail complex in Delhi, serving as a reminder of India's struggle for independence.

The Cellular Jail stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought against colonial oppression and for the freedom of India.