---

🇮🇳 Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose – The Forgotten Hero of India's Freedom Struggle

Subhas Chandra Bose, popularly known as Netaji, was one of India’s most dynamic and revolutionary leaders during the fight for independence. While many leaders chose non-violence, Netaji believed in armed resistance against British rule. His story is one of courage, leadership, and relentless patriotism.

🧠 Early Life and Education

Subhas Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha. He was the ninth child of Janakinath Bose, a successful lawyer, and Prabhavati Devi. A brilliant student from the beginning, Bose completed his education in Calcutta and later moved to England to appear for the Indian Civil Services (ICS) exam.

He passed with flying colors in 1920 but soon resigned from the ICS. His reason was simple and powerful — “I do not think that one can be loyal to the British Government and be at the same time loyal to the cause of Indian freedom.”

🚩 Entry into Freedom Movement

On returning to India, Subhas joined the Indian National Congress under the mentorship of Chittaranjan Das. He quickly rose in ranks and became the President of the Indian National Congress in 1938 and again in 1939. However, due to ideological differences with Mahatma Gandhi, especially on the approach to gaining independence, he resigned from the post.

Bose believed that British rule would not end without direct action. He started mobilizing Indians for an armed struggle and sought international support.

⚔️ Azad Hind Fauj – The Indian National Army (INA)

During World War II, Bose escaped house arrest in India and traveled secretly to Germany and then to Japan. With the help of the Japanese, he formed the Azad Hind Fauj (INA) – the Indian National Army – with Indian prisoners of war and civilians in Southeast Asia.

His famous war cry, “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,” became a rallying call for many. Under his leadership, the INA launched a military campaign against the British in Northeast India, reaching the borders of Manipur and Nagaland.

Although the campaign did not succeed militarily, it shook the British Empire and inspired massive patriotic sentiments across India.

🕯️ Mysterious Death

Netaji's death remains one of the greatest mysteries in Indian history. It is said that he died in a plane crash on August 18, 1945, in Taiwan. However, there has been no conclusive evidence or remains found. Many believe that he survived and lived in secrecy.

Multiple committees and investigations have been conducted, but the exact details of his death remain unresolved.

🌟 Legacy and Inspiration

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is remembered not only for his bravery but also for his vision of a strong, united, and independent India. He was a true nationalist who placed country above self and believed in discipline, sacrifice, and determination.

His efforts played a key role in awakening the Indian army and civilians to rise against British rule. Even British officials later admitted that the fear of a possible revolt within the army, inspired by Bose, was one of the reasons for leaving India in 1947.

🏛️ Remembering Netaji

In recent years, the Indian government has taken steps to honor his legacy. January 23 is now celebrated as “Parakram Diwas” (Day of Valor) across the country. His contributions have finally begun receiving the recognition they deserve.

--

---