What is the history and culture of Port Blair?

Nestled in the Southeastern coast of South Andamans islands, Port Blair boasts of a history that will have you engrossed. It shares an interesting past, featuring quite prominently in India's freedom struggle. Port Blair can be said to have witnessed a flurry of activities at the time of the uprising for freedom from British rule.

Port Blair was established by the Government of Bengal in the year 1789, as a token of respect to Lieutenant Archibald Blair. British constructed Cellular Jail, famously known as Kala Pani, at Port Blair in the late 19th century in the face of fiercely-growing rebellion against the government. It also served as the base of main action for the Azad Hind government, which worked under the leadership of the legendary Subhash Chandra Bose during World War II. India's struggle for freedom left a lasting imprint on Port Blair and its culture.

Apart from that, Port Blair is home to some of the oldest tribal communities of the world, including the Onges, the Sentinels and the Nicobarese. Natives of the place follow quite a few rituals that are nothing less than colorful. While many of the tribesmen prefer to live in the old, wild way, traces of modernity started trickling in the culture almost a decade back. The diversity in the culture of Port Blair comes out in vivid hues at the time of festivals, and being a part of those is an once in a lifetime experience. Don't forget to check out other places to visit in Port Blair to know about the history and culture.

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