Every 23rd of January, India comes together to celebrate the indomitable spirit of one of its greatest freedom fighters, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. This day, known as ‘Parakram Diwas’ or Courage Day, marks the 127th Birth Anniversary of the charismatic leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s destiny.
The government officially announced on January 19, 2021 that January 23 be observed as Parakram Diwas in order to pay tribute to Netaji’s relentless pursuit of India’s freedom
A Glimpse into Netaji’s Early Life
Born on January 23, 1897, in the vibrant city of Cuttack, Odisha, Netaji was the ninth child of Janakinath Bose and Prabhavati Devi. His journey from a bright philosophy student at Calcutta’s Presidency College to a rebel challenging the British authorities is nothing short of extraordinary.
The Rebel Emerges
In 1921, Netaji resigned from the Indian Civil Service, choosing to return to his homeland. His confrontations with the British earned him a rebellious reputation, capturing the attention of Chittaranjan Das, a prominent Congress leader. Under Das’s mentorship, Netaji founded the Swaraj Party and embarked on a journalistic venture with the newspaper ‘Swaraj.’
Rise to Prominence
Netaji’s political ascendancy continued as he assumed leadership roles in the All India Youth Congress Committee and the Bengal State Congress. His brief stint as the Mayor of Calcutta in 1930 showcased his administrative prowess.
The Birth of the Azad Hind Fauj
In 1942, amidst World War II, Netaji established the Indian National Army (INA) in Southeast Asia, assisted by Japan. Comprising Indian soldiers captured by the British, INA aimed at liberating India from colonial rule. Netaji went further, establishing the provisional government of Free India, ‘Azad Hind,’ in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Enigma of Netaji’s Demise
Tragically, Netaji’s life came to an end in a plane crash shortly after take-off. The mysterious circumstances surrounding his death prompted multiple investigations by the Government of India.
‘Netaji’: A Revered Leader
The title ‘Netaji,’ meaning ‘Revered Leader’ in Hindi, was bestowed upon Subhas Chandra Bose by German and Indian officials at the Special Bureau of India in Berlin, reflecting the respect he garnered worldwide.
Inspirational Quotes by Netaji
On the occasion of Netaji’s 127th Birth Anniversary, let’s draw inspiration from his timeless words:
- “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom!”
- “Soldiers who always remain faithful to their nation, who are always prepared to sacrifice their lives, are invincible.”
- “Freedom is not given, it is taken.”
- “It is our duty to pay for our liberty with our own blood. The freedom that we shall win through our sacrifice and exertions, we shall be able to preserve with our own strength.”
- “One individual may die for an idea, but that idea will, after his death, incarnate itself in a thousand lives.”
As we commemorate Netaji’s birth anniversary, let these quotes echo in our hearts, reminding us of the courage and sacrifice that paved the way for our nation’s freedom.
