“It is easy to die for one’s country, but it is difficult to live for it." - Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
Such determination marked one of the greatest leaders and freedom fighters of the country, my favorite Netaji, Subhas Chandra Bose. Even today, after a decade, talking about him still gives us goosebumps, and listening to his patriotic stories still fills people with pride for their heritage and our motherland, India.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose played a significant role in India's independence movement, challenging norms with his unwavering determination and bold actions.
It all began on January 23rd, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, the day of his birth. Born into an affluent Bengali family to parents Prabhavati Bose and Janakinath Bose, a famous lawyer who was self-made and loyal to the British Government.
His educational background was self-explanatory; he commenced his education at Ravenshaw Collegiate School, then joined his brothers on an educational quest at Presidency College, studying philosophy, but later completed his studies at Scottish Church College, securing second place at the University of Calcutta. His impressive educational journey continued with a degree in mental and moral sciences from Cambridge University and a 4th place in the Civil Services exam.
The seed of nationalism was already sown in him from an early age when he masterminded and participated in an episode involving E.F. Oaten, the history professor at the presidency, who made remarks on Indian culture. He officially entered politics after returning from Cambridge and holding a meeting with Mahatma Gandhi. However, due to his differing thoughts, Gandhi connected him with C.R. Das, who had a more liberal stance on extremism. This led to Netaji's entry into the Indian National Congress, where he worked for over 20 years. He led Bengal by founding the newspaper Swaraj, which also promoted the Bengal Provincial Congress Committee. He progressed further, holding several prominent positions, such as President of the Indian Youth Congress, and serving as the CEO of the Calcutta Municipal Corporation.
“Reality is, after all, too vast for our frail understanding to fully grasp. Nonetheless, we must build our lives on the theory that contains the maximum truth.” - Subhas Chandra Bose.
Although he initially adhered to Gandhian principles, a change in ideology created a division within the Indian National Congress. He was nominated for the position of Congress President due to the implementation of Swaraj and his use of force against British rule, which led to a direct clash with Gandhi. After being advised to form his own faction within the INC, Bose established the All India Forward Bloc, initiating activities with his staunch believer and supporter Muthuramalinga Thevar. He launched a civil disobedience movement while attempting to garner support for his leftist wing of the Forward Bloc in Madurai. Despite initially embracing Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence, Bose became disheartened by its ineffectiveness in achieving independence. Notably, he was already sensing that the approach to the British Government was leading nowhere, and his arrest sealed the fate of his liberating thoughts, paving the path for true nationalism. The factors that contributed to Bose's ideological shift included the oppressive actions of the British government, growing unrest among Indians, and exposure to revolutionary ideologies during his travels abroad. Men, money, and materials cannot, by themselves, secure victory, or freedom.
"We must have the motive power that will inspire us to brave deeds and heroic exploits.” - Subhas Chandra Bose
Bose's escape from house arrest in 1941 took him on a daring journey to Germany, Italy, and ultimately Japan during World War II. He began his journey by disguising himself as a Pathan and traversed through Afghanistan and the Soviet Union, not alone, but with the assistance of many individuals, including Mian Akbar Shah and supporters of Agah Khan III. Though he had high hopes for the Soviets to aid in his mission to overthrow British rule, their lukewarm response left Netaji disappointed, and he was handed over to the German Ambassador. He proceeded to Berlin for further negotiations. Recognizing the strategic importance of collaborating with the Axis powers, Bose established the Azad Hind Government, with the aim of liberating India from British rule. However, the ongoing war involving the Axis and Allied forces and the reluctance of the Nazi Army forced him to alter his plans and head to Japan. He achieved some swift victories as he departed for Japan with the support of the Nazi government.
“Reality is, after all, too vast for our frail understanding to fully grasp. Nonetheless, we must build our lives on the theory that contains the maximum truth.” - Subhas Chandra Bose
Now, before delving into the INA and its strategic significance in British-ruled India, let us understand how the INA came into existence. INA, or Indian National Army, was conceived by Japanese Major Iwachi Fujiwara, who envisioned a military group to fight alongside the Japanese Army. He recruited a captured British India Captain Mohan Singh, and the birth of INA was set in motion. However, it disbanded soon due to disagreements among its leaders. Under Bose's visionary leadership, the Indian National Army (INA) was reorganized and transformed into a formidable fighting force. Rash Behari Bose, the leader of the Indian Independence League, entrusted him with the reins of INA. The INA launched military campaigns against the British in Southeast Asia, resulting in fierce battles that captured the imagination of Indians striving for freedom. With his famous proclamation,
“You give me blood, I will give you freedom" - Subhas Chandra Bose
Bose's speeches profoundly inspired Indians, stirring their passion for freedom and instilling a sense of national pride. His charismatic leadership style, blending intellect and emotion, bolstered the morale of INA soldiers, ensuring their unwavering commitment to the cause. Their initial objective was to liberate the frontiers of Manipur by exerting pressure on Imphal and Kohima. With the Japanese taking control of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, INA was officially established on Indian soil. Though they started on a positive note, various challenges, including the bombing of major Japanese towns Hiroshima and Nagasaki, ultimately led to the withdrawal of support from the Japanese Army. Nevertheless, INA continued to engage in major battles like Mount Popa and Pegu.
“Remember that the greatest crime is to compromise with injustice and wrong.” — Subhas Chandra Bose
Netaji recognized the need for international support in India's struggle for independence and worked tirelessly to gain global recognition for India's cause. Collaborating with other anti-imperialist movements and leaders worldwide, Bose spearheaded efforts to unite nations against imperialism and colonial rule. The circumstances surrounding Bose's alleged death in a plane crash in 1945 remain shrouded in mystery, fueling numerous debates and investigations. The most famous one pertains to the third-degree burns suffered in the plane crash. Ongoing speculation and theories about his possible survival and subsequent hiding have sparked further interest and added to the enduring mystery. In conclusion, Bose's contributions to India's independence movement are immeasurable, as he challenged the norms and paved the way for a united and free India. His impact on shaping the nation's identity and inspiring future leaders cannot be underestimated, as his unwavering determination and sacrifice continue to inspire generations.
“When we stand, the Azad Hind Fauj has to be like a wall of granite; when we march, the Azad Hind Fauj has to be like a steamroller.” - Subhas Chandra Bose.