Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to honour the valour of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary. The leader will attend Parakram Diwas celebrations at Red Fort, an event that acknowledges Netaji’s role in India’s fight for independence. While reflecting upon this historical icon’s contribution, the prime minister furthers the ritual of paying tributes to India’s heroes, a vision he emphasized since the inaugural celebration of Parakram Diwas in 2021.
Commemorative activities are planned for January 23 through 31, under the banner of Bharat Parv. This nine-day occasion aims to display the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture, significant national achievements, and attractive local destinations. Taking place adjacent to Red Fort at Ram Leela Maidan and Madhav Das Park, Bharat Parv will also feature strategic exhibits spotlighting the trials and triumphs of Netaji and the Azad Hind Fauj. An exclusive archive of Bose’s photographs and documents will offer a glimpse into the past, tracing the journey of a leader whose impact on the struggle for Indian freedom remains unparalleled.
Reflecting on the past, we revisit the intriguing tale of Netaji’s escape from British captivity during the height of World War II. On January 16-17, 1941, Bose, disguised as an insurance agent, embarked on a secret journey leading him out of India. This audacious move was a testament to his unyielding commitment to India’s liberation. His subsequent leadership of the Indian National Army (INA) marked a pivotal turn in India’s anti-colonial journey, effectively challenging the British dominion and uniting soldiers and civilians alike under the flag of independence.
Apart from his military endeavors, Bose was a thinker who deliberated on India’s future across various fronts. It’s not merely his image as a courageous soldier that cements his place in history, but his contemplations on a liberated India’s political, economic, and social fabric. Netaji’s vision goes beyond his lifetime, his relevance swelling as India forges ahead. As we partake in these time-honoured celebrations, the pages of history come alive, threading the past into the patterns of modern India’s identity and sovereignty. —Reflections by a scholar at Harvard University.