Parakram Diwas [Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti]
Parakram Diwas, also known as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, is celebrated annually on January 23rd to commemorate the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent Indian freedom fighter and the founder of the Indian National Army (INA).
The day was officially renamed “Parakram Diwas” (Day of Valor) by the Government of India in 2021.
History and Significance
Subhas Chandra Bose, affectionately known as Netaji, was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha. He was a brilliant student and a charismatic leader who played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence from British rule.
Bose’s ideologies and methods differed from those of Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, as he believed in the necessity of armed struggle to achieve freedom.
Netaji’s most notable contribution was the formation of the Indian National Army (INA) in 1943, which comprised Indian prisoners of war and expatriates from Southeast Asia. The INA, under Bose’s leadership, fought alongside the Japanese forces against the British during World War II, with the aim of liberating India from colonial rule.
Parakram Diwas is celebrated to honour Netaji’s bravery, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to India’s freedom struggle. It is an occasion to remember his sacrifices and to inspire future generations to work towards the betterment of the nation.
Important Facts about Netaji
- Subhas Chandra Bose was elected as the President of the Indian National Congress in 1938 and 1939, but resigned due to ideological differences with Mahatma Gandhi and other Congress leaders.
- Netaji escaped from British surveillance in India in 1941 and travelled to Germany and Japan to seek support for India’s independence struggle.
- The INA’s battle cry was “Chalo Delhi” (Onward to Delhi), reflecting their determination to liberate India from British rule.
- After Netaji’s disappearance in 1945, numerous theories and controversies have arisen regarding his fate, with some believing he survived and others claiming he died in a plane crash.
- In 2018, the Government of India declassified a series of files related to Netaji, shedding light on various aspects of his life and the freedom struggle.
Celebrations and Events
On Parakram Diwas, various events and ceremonies are organized across India to pay homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. These include:
- Floral tributes at Netaji’s statues and memorials
- Lectures, seminars, and discussions on Netaji’s life and legacy
- Exhibitions showcasing photographs, documents, and memorabilia related to Netaji and the INA
- Cultural programs, including patriotic songs and performances
- Youth engagement activities to promote the values of patriotism and national service
The central government and state governments also organize official ceremonies and events to mark the occasion. In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on recognizing and celebrating Netaji’s contributions to India’s freedom struggle.
