Cellular Jail

At the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cellular Jail in Port Blair, we honored India’s freedom struggle through meticulous restoration. We conserved crumbling brickwork and iron grilles using lime-based mortars and anti-corrosive treatments, preserving the jail’s haunting history. We have carefully threaded the fine line of the conservation principles while always asking: How much to restore? Where to draw the line? While we treated the cracks, plastered the walls and worked on structural rehabilitation we respected the place and its stories. The writings on the walls of the prison cells which were etched by the freedom fighters were documented and left intact to tell the story. In addition, students and local communities were involved throughout the restoration process involving dialogue and enhancing the intangible heritage of the space.

Our detailed documentation and conservation strategies stabilized the structure while retaining its raw authenticity. By reinforcing foundations and restoring cell interiors, we ensured the site remains a poignant memorial. This project reflects our commitment to safeguarding national heritage with precision and reverence.