Subhash Chandra Bose Jayanti 2026: India commemorates the 129th birth anniversary of Subhash Chandra Bose on January 23, 2026. Celebrated as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour), the day is celebrated every year reigniting the Netaji’s fiery call: “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom.”
Early Life: Forging a Revolutionary Mind
Born in 1897 in Cuttack to a Bengali family, Subhash Chandra Bose grew up in a politically charged era under British rule. In 1921, he rejected an Indian Civil Service job to join the freedom struggle, influenced by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda. His passion burned bright early, imprisoned multiple times and escaped house arrest disguised as a Pathan in 1941, embarking on a daring journey to Japan and Germany.
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The charisma of Subhash united diverse group. He revitalized the Indian National Congress as its president in 1938 and 1939, clashing with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi over non-violence. He declared that freedom is not given but taken, forming the Forward Bloc to push aggressive action.
Key Achievements: From INA to Immortal Legacy
The crowning glory of Netaji as he was fondly called was the Indian National Army (INA). In 1943, he assumed leadership of the Azad Hind Fauj, proclaiming himself as the Head of State and Prime Minister. Subhash made the war cry “Chalo Delhi” that prompted more than 40,000 soldiers to march, liberating parts of Northeast India. The INA trials in Delhi sparked the Royal Indian Navy mutiny, hastening Britain’s exit in 1947.
Posthumously awarded Bharat Ratna in 1997, Subhash Chandra Bose symbolized bold resistance. Unlike passive satyagraha, Bose championed armed struggle, believing only total war could shatter colonial chains. His all-women regiment championed gender equality decades ahead. His mysterious 1945 plane crash in Taiwan fuelled debates and boldness trumped hesitation.
Subhash Chandra Bose Jayanti 2026 reminds us that true freedom demands valour.