From Port Blair to Sri Vijaya Puram: Tracing the Colonial history Behind the Name

The Indian government has officially renamed Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, to Sri Vijaya Puram. . Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the change on Friday, stating that Sri Vijaya Puram honors the heroic people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and reflects a commitment to moving away from colonial symbols. Also read: Treasures of the Gupta Empire: Book Launch and Rare Coins Exhibition to Rediscover India’s Golden Era

The Colonial history of Port Blair

Port Blair, originally named after Captain Archibald Blair, a British naval officer, has a deep-rooted connection to colonialism. Blair was instrumental in surveying and exploring the Andaman Islands during the late 18th century. He first arrived in the region in 1788, as part of a British expedition, and his findings led to the establishment of the first British settlement on Chatham Island in 1789.

Blair’s discovery of a natural harbor in the southern part of Great Andaman Island was initially named Port Cornwallis, in honor of Commodore William Cornwallis, the Commander-in-Chief of the British-Indian Navy. However, the name was later changed to Port Blair to recognize Blair’s contributions to the development of British control over the islands.

Also read: IGNCA Hosts Momentous Launch of ‘Treasures of the Gupta Empire’ by Sanjeev Kumar

Captain Archibald Blair’s work was crucial in laying the foundation for British colonization in the Andaman Islands. His detailed reports, presented to the British governor-general in 1789, convinced the British government to establish a foothold in the region. Blair oversaw the construction of the first settlement on Chatham Island, clearing forests and building cottages for British settlers.

However, the settlement faced significant challenges, including disease outbreaks and resistance from the indigenous tribes. Although the colony was initially relocated, Blair’s work set the stage for the British presence in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. By 1858, the islands became a penal colony, housing Indian freedom fighters imprisoned after the First War of Indian Independence.

The new name Sri Vijaya Puram pays homage to the region’s historical and strategic importance, dating back to the time of the Cholas, while also commemorating the sacrifices of freedom fighters who were imprisoned on these islands. The renaming signifies a break from the colonial past and a renewed focus on India’s indigenous heritage.

  • Prateeksha Thakur

    [Prateeksha Thakur] is a seasoned journalist known for [her] sharp analysis and clear communication. At Newsisland, [she] focus on political reporting, offering readers a nuanced understanding of complex issues.

    Related Posts

    Loveyapa Box Office collection: Junaid Khan-Khushi Kapoor’s rom-com struggles to gain momentum on day 6

    Loveyapa, starring Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor, has struggled at the box office, earning just ₹6.27 crore in six days despite a ₹60 crore budget. With declining weekday collections, the…

    Viral Video from Maha Kumbh: emotional husband reunites with wife after heartfelt separation

    A viral video from Maha Kumbh Mela shows a husband and wife reunited after being lost in the crowd, reminding all of love’s strength. The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj…

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    You Missed

    Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan Reunite for 2025’s Biggest Love Story, As Per Rohit Shetty’s Teaser

    Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan Reunite for 2025’s Biggest Love Story, As Per Rohit Shetty’s Teaser

    Dr. K. A. Paul urges U S leaders to hold Prime Minister Modi accountable for ongoing violence against minorities in India

    Dr. K. A. Paul urges U S leaders to hold Prime Minister Modi accountable for ongoing violence against minorities in India

    The First Defector Group from North Korea, K-pop’s Dream Performance in Their Homeland

    The First Defector Group from North Korea, K-pop’s Dream Performance in Their Homeland

    Ashutosh Rana is Back in Theatre After almost 20 Years: Starring in Humare Ram

    Ashutosh Rana is Back in Theatre After almost 20 Years: Starring in Humare Ram

    Loveyapa Box Office collection: Junaid Khan-Khushi Kapoor’s rom-com struggles to gain momentum on day 6

    Loveyapa Box Office collection: Junaid Khan-Khushi Kapoor’s rom-com struggles to gain momentum on day 6

    Guru Atma Nambi Hails Prayagraj Kumbh Mela as a Symbol of Global Unity and Spiritual Harmony

    Guru Atma Nambi Hails Prayagraj Kumbh Mela as a Symbol of Global Unity and Spiritual Harmony