A Revolutionary Leader’s Origins
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, celebrated annually on 23 January, marks the birth anniversary of one of India’s foremost freedom fighters. This significant day is observed as ‘Parakram Diwas’ or Courage Day. This year, we commemorate the 127th Birth Anniversary of the iconic Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His contributions, from spearheading the Indian National Army to forging alliances against the British during World War II, laid the groundwork for the modern Indian state.
Early Years in Cuttack
Born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha, Subhas Chandra Bose was the ninth child of Janakinath Bose and Prabhavati Devi. A brilliant student, he completed his BA in Philosophy at the Presidency College in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Sent to England for the Civil Services Examination, he excelled, securing the highest marks in English and standing fourth overall.
A Rebel’s Journey Unfolds
In 1921, Subhas Chandra Bose resigned from the Indian Civil Service, returning to India. His clashes with the authorities labeled him a rebel by the then-British government. Under the mentorship of Congress leader Chittaranjan Das, he played a pivotal role in forming the Swaraj Party in 1922. Starting the newspaper Swaraj and editing the Forward, he left an indelible mark on the political landscape.
Political Rise and Diverse Roles
Elected as the President of the All India Youth Congress Committee and the Secretary of the Bengal State Congress in 1923, Netaji’s influence continued to grow. His brief stint as the mayor of Calcutta in 1930 showcased his multifaceted leadership.
The Formation of the Indian National Army
In 1942, amidst World War II, Netaji formed the Indian National Army in Southeast Asia with Japanese support. Comprising Indian soldiers captured by the British Indian army, he established the provisional government of Free India or Azad Hind in 1943 in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, then under Japanese control.
The Enigma Surrounding His End
Tragically, Subhas Chandra Bose is believed to have perished in a plane crash shortly after take-off. The mysterious circumstances of his death led the Indian government to initiate multiple investigations.
The Revered Leader – Netaji
The title ‘Netaji,’ meaning ‘Revered Leader’ in Hindi, was conferred upon Subhas Chandra Bose by German and Indian officials at the Special Bureau of India in Berlin.
Inspirational Quotes by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
On this momentous occasion, let’s reflect on some of Netaji’s inspiring quotes:
- “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom!”
- “Soldiers who always remain faithful to their nation, always prepared to sacrifice their lives, are invincible.”
- “Freedom is not given, it is taken.”
- “We must pay for our liberty with our blood. The freedom that we shall win through our sacrifice and exertions, we shall be able to preserve with our strength.”
- “One individual may die for an idea, but that idea will, after his death, incarnate itself in a thousand lives.”
Commemorating Netaji’s Birth Anniversary: A Salute to a Hero
- Azad Hind Fauj’s Formation: Determined to showcase strength against the British, Netaji formed the Azad Hind Fauj. Wishing Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose a happy birthday!
- Fearless Son of Mother India: Fearless and courageous, worshipped in every home, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is immortal.
- Pride of India: Known as the pride of India, Subhas Chandra Bose continues to be a source of inspiration for all. Salutations to the great leader!
- Mysterious Saga of Azad Fauj: Where did he go, where did he stay, this mysterious story is still unfolding. Today, we know him through the saga of the Azad Fauj.
- Eternal Inspiration: Whose every drop of blood is dedicated to the nation, Subhas Chandra Bose remains an eternal inspiration. His name alone instills fear in enemies.
- Day of Sacrifice in Burma: On that day, people truly understood the value of bloodshed, the day Subhas requested sacrifices in Burma.
- Warrior, Yogi, Sage: Subhas Chandra Bose, is a warrior, a yogi, a sage, who resides in the hearts of Indians. Happy Birthday, Netaji!
- Embedding Leadership: If you want to be a leader, embed Subhas Ji in your heart. Find solutions to India’s challenges, just like him.
In celebrating Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary, we honor a leader whose legacy inspires generations.
