Kotpad 23rd January 2025 Subhas Chandra Bose, popularly known as Netaji, was one of India’s greatest freedom fighters and a prominent leader in the struggle against British colonial rule. He was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, into a wealthy and educated family. Bose was a brilliant student who earned a degree in philosophy and later went to England to prepare for the Indian Civil Services (ICS). However, driven by his patriotism, he resigned from the ICS to dedicate himself to India’s independence.
Bose was deeply influenced by Swami Vivekananda and believed in combining spirituality with political action. He joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and quickly rose through the ranks. However, due to ideological differences with Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders, Bose eventually parted ways with the Congress.
In 1939, he founded the Forward Bloc, aiming to consolidate anti-British forces. Bose’s revolutionary ideas and bold actions earned him immense support. He believed that armed resistance was necessary for India’s freedom, unlike the non-violent approach advocated by Gandhi.
During World War II, Bose sought international support for India’s independence. He escaped house arrest in India and traveled to Germany and later to Japan. With the support of the Axis powers, he formed the Indian National Army (INA) and coined the slogan “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom.”
Under his leadership, the INA fought alongside Japanese forces in campaigns against the British in Southeast Asia. Although the INA faced setbacks, Bose’s efforts inspired Indians to rise against British rule.
Subhas Chandra Bose’s mysterious death in a plane crash in 1945 remains a topic of debate and speculation. Despite his untimely demise, Netaji’s legacy lives on as