The nation is commemorating the 127th birth anniversary of revered freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose today, also designated as "Parakram Diwas" or the Day of Valour.
Prime Minister Modi, along with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and other prominent leaders, commenced the day by paying floral tributes to Netaji at the Samvidhan Sadan in the Parliament.
Following the homage, the Prime Minister engaged in an interactive session with students at the Sadan, fostering a connection between the leadership and the youth.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari extended his wishes to citizens on X, saying, "Paying tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the visionary behind Azad Hind Fauj and a prominent leader in India's freedom struggle 🇮🇳, on his birth anniversary. Warm greetings to all fellow countrymen on the auspicious occasion of 'Parakram Diwas.'"
Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal and a BJP representative Suvendu Adhikari also conveyed his wishes to the citizens of the country, stating, "I respectfully salute the Greatest Freedom Fighter and National Hero of Bharat, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, on his 127th Birth Anniversary."
The Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the year 2021 officially designated January 23 as "Parakram Diwas," an annual commemoration dedicated to honouring the legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
The official announcement underscored the importance of recognising January 23 as Parakram Diwas, shedding light on Netaji's unwavering commitment to India's quest for independence. The term "Parakram Diwas" translates to the "Day of Valour" or "Day of Courage."
The Centre, in a notification, stated, "In order to honour and remember Netaji’s indomitable spirit and selfless service to the nation, Government of India has decided to celebrate his birthday on the 23rd day of January every year as 'Parakram Diwas' to inspire people of the country, especially the youth, to act with fortitude in the face of adversity as Netaji did, and to infuse in them a spirit of patriotic fervour."
The Parakram Diwas holds immense importance in honouring Netaji's legacy and inspiring generations to come. In 2021, the inaugural event took place at Victoria Memorial Hall in Kolkata. Subsequent years witnessed diverse tributes, including the unveiling of a hologram statue of Netaji at India Gate in 2022 and the naming of 21 largest unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar Islands after Param Vir Chakra awardees in 2023.
This year, the Union Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with institutions like the Archaeological Survey of India, National School of Drama, Sahitya Akademi, and the National Archives of India, is set to host a comprehensive celebration at the iconic Red Fort. The event promises a rich array of activities delving into the profound legacy of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and the Azad Hind Fauj.
The Red Fort holds historical significance in the story of Netaji and the Azad Hind Fauj, and it is all set to be part of a new-look experience. The walls of the fort will be illuminated with a projection mapping show, showcasing stories of bravery and sacrifice, created by artists from the National School of Drama (NSD). The show will merge history with art and pay special tribute to the veterans of the Indian National Army.
As part of the celebration, the Red Fort will open its doors to the public for free, providing a unique opportunity to witness exhibitions of archives. Rare photographs and documents chronicling the journey of Netaji and the Azad Hind Fauj will be on display. Additionally, painting and sculpture workshops will be conducted during the event, engaging visitors in a creative exploration of Netaji's legacy.
The celebrations extend beyond the Red Fort, with the launch of Bharat Parv by Prime Minister Modi. To be held from January 23 to January 31, Bharat Parv aims to showcase the country's rich diversity through Republic Day Tableaux and cultural exhibits. Ministries and Departments, in collaboration, will highlight citizen-centric initiatives, promote "vocal for local," and feature diverse tourist attractions.
Parakram Diwas, beyond being a day of remembrance, stands as a testament to India's commitment to preserving the invaluable contributions of its freedom fighters. The multifaceted celebrations not only honour Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose but also serve as a platform to inspire the youth and instil a spirit of patriotic fervour in the hearts of the nation.
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