Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 23 November 2024
The Chief Secretary, Mr. Keshav Chandra, IAS, unveiled his book titled ‘When Turquoise Waters Turned Dark’ on November 22, 2024. The unveiling took place at a brief yet notable ceremony in the conference hall of the Secretariat, attended by Mr. Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, IPS, DGP of A&N Islands, senior administrative officials, and members of the media.
The book, a vivid narrative of the mesmerising beauty and imperial history of the A&N Islands, is published by Penguin and features a foreword by renowned photographer and journalist Mr. Raghu Rai. Highlighting its meticulous research, Mr. Chandra shared insights into the six chapters of the book, which delve into the Islands’ transformation from the pristine “turquoise waters” to the grim historical era symbolised by the name Kaalapani (dark waters).
Tracing the journey of the Islands, the book begins with the arrival of Archibald Blair, a naval surveyor, and recounts the stories of iconic landmarks such as Ross Island (now Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island), the Cellular Jail, and Viper Jail. It also explores the tribal life of the Nicobar Islands, the challenges faced during the Japanese occupation, and the rich anthropological history of the aboriginal tribes.
“The book aims not just to document history but also to celebrate the beauty of these islands,” Mr. Chandra remarked, adding that the publication is enriched with photographs that capture the breathtaking landscapes of the A&N Islands. “This will be a treasure trove for anyone keen to learn about the islands, be it residents or visitors,” he said.
In her welcome address, Ms. Purva Garg, IAS, Secretary (Shipping/APWD), lauded the Chief Secretary’s effort in creating a book that harmoniously blends historical depth with visual splendour. She emphasised that the book is an invaluable resource for history enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone interested in India’s colonial heritage.
With When Turquoise Waters Turned Dark, Mr. Chandra has created not just a historical account but a tribute to the enduring legacy and beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The book promises to captivate readers with its combination of history and stunning visual storytelling.