The Story of Cellular Jail – Prison to Pilgrimage” Released by Chief Secretary, Sheds Light on India’s Untold Freedom Struggles

In a heartfelt tribute to the forgotten chapters of India’s freedom struggle, historian and cultural scholar Dr. Rashida Iqbal officially unveiled her book, The Story of Cellular Jail – Prison to Pilgrimage, at a special event held at the Andaman Club.

The release was graced by Chief Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar, the Secretary of Art and Culture, Ms. Jyoti Kumari, IAS, and Director of Art and Culture, Ms. Priyanka Kumari, alongside prominent historians, tourism stakeholders, well-wishers, and the author’s family.

The book offers a comprehensive narrative of Cellular Jail’s history, tracing its journey from a penal colony in 1858 to its transformation into a revered national monument post-independence. Lauding the book’s rigorous research and storytelling, the Chief Secretary emphasized its role in preserving India’s heritage and educating future generations about the sacrifices made on these islands.

He further noted that the Cellular Jail and Narcondam Island are currently on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites tentative list, with ongoing efforts to secure final recognition. Additionally, the Administration has proposed four more sites from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for World Heritage status.

Dr. Iqbal, a former Assistant Director (Art & Culture) and a respected poet and writer, described her book as a compact yet comprehensive account covering 1858 to 1945, including the construction of the Jail, the struggles of freedom fighters, the Japanese occupation, and the post-independence preservation efforts. She also credited the Ex-Andaman Political Prisoners Fraternity Circle for their advocacy in safeguarding the Jail’s heritage.

The book is available in two editions – paperback (Rs. 349) and hardbound (Rs. 519) – and can be purchased on Amazon and Notion Press.