Sri Vijaya Puram, April 16: A newly published book, The Hidden History of Andaman and Nicobar, authored by renowned historian and anthropologist Pronob Kumar Sircar, was launched this evening by Chandra Bhushan Kumar, Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, in his chamber in the presence of senior officials.
Speaking to Andaman Chronicle, Dr. Sircar described the book as “not merely a book, but a voice of the forgotten and a journey into truths long buried in time.” His sixth work, it goes beyond conventional narratives to uncover lost stories, hidden heritage, and the living descendants of heroes of the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
The book explores lesser-known sites such as North Corbyn’s Cove, convict barracks, ancient shell middens, and the earliest known grave in the islands, while also revisiting colonial-era accounts, shipwrecks, and foreign travel narratives. It delves into enduring mysteries like the abandoned church of Ross Island and the harsh realities of Cellular Jail, including untold stories of suffering, resistance, and sacrifice—such as the account of Neera Arya.
Drawing from over 50 rare interviews, the work restores forgotten voices, including the story of 40 Munda warriors of Birsa Munda. Dr. Sircar noted that the research took him across regions, from West Bengal to Meerut, tracing families and historical sites connected to the Andamans.
“This is not just history—it is rediscovery,” he said.