Subhas Chandra Bose

Subhas Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, into a well-respected Bengali family. His father, Janakinath Bose, was a lawyer, and his mother, Prabhavati Devi, was a religious and kind-hearted woman. Bose was a brilliant student from a young age. He completed his schooling at Ravenshaw Collegiate School and later joined Presidency College, Kolkata. His nationalistic ideas emerged early in life when he was expelled for protesting against British teachers who insulted Indians.

Later, he went to England in 1919 to prepare for the Indian Civil Service (ICS) examination, which he passed with flying colors. However, his desire to serve India led him to resign from the prestigious service in 1921, declaring that he could not serve the British government that ruled over his country.

Entry into Politics

Upon returning to India, Bose joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and quickly became a prominent leader. He worked closely with Mahatma Gandhi but had ideological differences with him. While Gandhi followed non-violent resistance (Satyagraha), Bose believed that freedom could only be achieved through armed struggle.

He became the President of the Indian National Congress in 1938 and again in 1939. However, he resigned due to conflicts with the Congress leadership and formed the Forward Bloc to unify the people against British rule.

Formation of the Indian National Army (INA)

During World War II, Bose saw an opportunity to fight against British rule with international support. He traveled to Germany and later to Japan, seeking help from the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan) to free India. In 1943, he established the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army - INA) in Singapore with the support of the Japanese government.

With the INA, Bose inspired thousands of Indian soldiers and civilians to take up arms against British rule. His most famous slogan, “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom!”, became a rallying cry for freedom fighters. The INA fought bravely in Burma (now Myanmar) and northeastern India, but due to Japan’s surrender in 1945, the army's campaign weakened.

Mysterious Disappearance

On August 18, 1945, it was reported that Bose died in a plane crash in Taipei, Taiwan. However, there has been much speculation about his death. Many believe that he survived and lived in secret, while others suggest that he was captured by the Soviet Union. His disappearance remains one of the greatest mysteries in Indian history.

Legacy and Contribution

Subhas Chandra Bose’s contribution to India’s independence movement is immeasurable. His vision of an independent India, his leadership in forming the INA, and his relentless fight against British rule continue to inspire generations. The Indian government has honored him with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, celebrated every January 23rd. His ideals of patriotism, courage, and selfless service remain deeply ingrained in India's history.

Subhas Chandra Bose will always be remembered as Netaji, the fearless leader who dedicated his life to India’s freedom.