- Subhas Chandra Bose, popularly known by his sobriquet, Netaji, stands as one of the most prominent, engimatic and charismatic leaders in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule. His lifelong devotion to India’s independence, his ability to rally the masses, and his cosmopolitan outlook set him apart as a revolutionary patriot and a towering personality in Indian history.
- The honorific ‘Netaji’ (Respected Leader) was first applied to Subhas Chandra Bose in Germany in early 1942—by the Indian soldiers of the Free India Legion in Berlin.
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About Subhas Chandra Bose

Source: Subhas Chandra Bose
- Birth and Early Life: Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Orissa.
- Cuttack is known as the Silver City by witnessing its Tarakashi (silver filigree) craft.
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- Education: Bose completed his schooling in Cuttack and later pursued higher education at Presidency College, Kolkata & Cambridge University in the UK, preparing for the Indian Civil Services exam.
- Joining the Freedom Struggle: In 1921, Bose resigned from the ICS and joined the INC, driven by his passion for India’s freedom.
Bose’s Leadership in INC
- Congress Presidency: Presided over the INC in 1938 Haripura and 1939 Tripuri Session, advocated for Swaraj as a national demand and opposed the Indian Federation under British rule.
- Formation of the Forward Bloc: After resigning as Congress president in 1939, Bose founded the Forward Bloc to unite radical-left elements within the party.
- Ideological Conflict with Gandhi: Despite deep respect for Gandhi, Bose disagreed on several ideological grounds, notably on non-violence and the pace of achieving independence.
Bose’s Ideological Divide with Gandhi
- Differences in Approach: While Gandhi advocated for non-violence, Bose believed in using force and modern technology to liberate India.
- Respect for Gandhi: Despite their ideological differences, Bose acknowledged Gandhi as the “father of the nation” in 1944.
Indian National Army (INA) and Azad Hind Government
- INA Formation: Established in 1942 with Indian POWs, the INA aimed to liberate India from British rule. Bose took charge of the INA in 1943 and revitalised it, commanding 12,000 soldiers.
- Call for Liberation: Bose’s iconic “Delhi Chalo” slogan rallied the INA to march towards India, reaching Imphal and Kohima before retreating in 1945 due to Allied counterattacks.
- Azad Hind Government: With Japanese assistance, Bose formed the Azad Hind Government in exile and led the INA’s operations against British forces in Southeast Asia.
Key Contributions to India’s Independence
- Inspiration and Leadership: Bose’s leadership galvanised the Indian freedom movement with his calls for immediate action, differing from Gandhi’s approach of non-violence and passive resistance.
- Military Strategy and Diplomacy: Bose sought foreign alliances (Soviet Union, Germany, and Japan) to support India’s struggle and reorganised the INA to fight British forces.
Theories on Bose’s Death and Disappearance
- Plane Crash Theory: It is widely believed that Bose died in a plane crash in Taipei on August 18, 1945, with reports confirming his death due to burns and shock.
- Investigations and Commissions: Several committees were formed post-independence to investigate Bose’s death:
- Shah Nawaz Committee (1956): Concluded Bose died in the crash.
- G.D. Khosla Commission (1970): Also affirmed the death in the crash.
- Manoj Kumar Mukherjee Report (2006): Questioned the crash theory but lacked conclusive evidence to support the theory of Bose being alive.
- Declassification of Files: In 2015, West Bengal declassified 64 files on Bose, followed by the central government in 2016, but none provided conclusive evidence of his survival after 1945.
Qualities of Subhas Chandra Bose’s Personality
- Subhas Chandra Bose (born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha) was an edifice of several unique traits/qualities that defined his leadership style and endeared him to the people at large.
Unwavering Determination and Patriotism
- Renunciation of ICS: Bose’s patriotism was evident when he renounced a prestigious Indian Civil Service (ICS) career in 1921 to dedicate himself to India’s freedom struggle.
- Radical Methods: Opposing British rule through radical means, he rejected non-violence and embraced armed struggle as necessary for independence.
- Diverse Support: Bose’s determination garnered support from various sections of society and abroad.
Visionary Leadership
- Self-reliant India: Bose envisioned a modern, industrialised, and self-reliant India with a socialist framework that reduced economic disparities.
- Gender Equality: Bose championed gender equality, establishing the Rani Jhansi Regiment, one of the first all-women military units.
- International Alliances: He sought international support from countries like Germany and Japan during WWII to weaken British control.
Charismatic Leadership
- Unifying Force: Bose’s fiery speeches, energy, and personality unified diverse ideologies and regions, earning him a dedicated following.
- Congress Leadership: Elected Congress President in 1938 (Haripura) and 1939 (Tripuri) despite opposition, showcasing his ability to rally support.
- INA Leadership: His leadership of the INA resonated with many, especially those disillusioned with non-violent methods.
Organisational Skills
- Civic Infrastructure: As Mayor of Calcutta in 1930, he worked on improving civic infrastructure and public services.
- INA Formation: Bose transformed the INA from a small group of POWs into a disciplined force that fought against the British.
- International Diplomacy: He negotiated with foreign leaders to advance India’s cause during WWII.
Revolutionary Ideology
- Break with Status Quo: Bose’s radical methods and direct action set him apart from other leaders who preferred negotiations.
- Provisional Government and War Declaration: His formation of the Provisional Government of Free India and declaration of war symbolised India’s fight for sovereignty.
Inclusivity and Secularism
- Unity Among Communities: Bose promoted unity and secularism, ensuring that the INA was diverse and inclusive, transcending religious and regional divides.
Military Leadership
- Natural Leader: Bose demonstrated leadership skills during military campaigns, emphasising discipline, strategy, and morale in the INA.
- Purpose in Life: He instilled a sense of purpose among INA soldiers, motivating them to fight for India’s liberation.
Symbol of Defiance
- Escape from India: His daring escape from house arrest in 1941 and journey to Germany and Japan became a symbol of resistance to British rule.
Influence on Post-Independence India
- Legacy: Bose’s emphasis on self-reliance, industrialisation, and gender equality influenced post-independence policies, with the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan echoing his vision. His contributions also shaped India’s military ethos, inspiring the development of a confident Indian Army.
Conclusion
- Subhas Chandra Bose’s leadership, radical approach, and vision for a self-reliant, inclusive India made him a key figure in the freedom struggle. His emphasis on nationalism, gender equality, and military strength continues to influence contemporary policies. Bose’s unwavering commitment to India’s sovereignty and unity remains a powerful symbol of courage and patriotism, inspiring future generations.
Reference: Indian Express
UPSC Mains PYQs – Personalities – Subhas Chandra Bose
- Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (2016)
PMF IAS Pathfinder for Mains – Question 60
Approach
- Introduction: Start with a brief introduction to Subhas Chandra Bose as a prominent leader of India’s freedom struggle.
- Body: Highlight the leadership qualities and broad facets of Subhas Chandra Bose’s personality.
- Conclusion: Summarise how Bose’s leadership qualities and vision made him a key figure in the freedom struggle and him being popular to this day.
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