Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, also known as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour), is observed every year on 23 January in India. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of the most courageous leaders of India’s freedom struggle. This day honours his fearless spirit, strong leadership, and unmatched contribution to India’s independence movement.
Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti is not merely a birth anniversary. Instead, it symbolises courage, sacrifice, discipline, and national duty. Netaji believed that freedom could not be achieved without determination and action. Therefore, his life and ideology continue to inspire millions of Indians, especially students and youth.
In 2021, the Government of India officially declared 23 January as Parakram Diwas to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji. The word ‘Parakram’ means bravery or valour, which perfectly reflects Netaji’s approach to the freedom movement. Through this observance, the government aims to promote values such as patriotism, selfless service, and leadership among citizens.
For aspirants preparing for UPSC, APSC, and other State PCS examinations, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti holds special importance. It is directly linked to Modern Indian History, Ethics, Leadership, and Nationalism, which are core areas of the civil services syllabus. As a result, understanding the meaning and significance of this day is essential for both exam preparation and personality development.
Know About Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose:
Subhas Chandra Bose was born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha. He joined the Indian freedom movement in 1921 and initially worked with Mahatma Gandhi under the banner of the Indian National Congress.
Later, due to ideological differences, Netaji chose a more assertive path. He became Congress President in 1938 and strongly advocated complete and immediate independence. His leadership style and revolutionary ideas made him a symbol of resistance and courage.
Key Facts on the Life and Contribution of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose:
| Aspect | Details |
| Popular Title | Netaji |
| Date of Birth | 23 January, 1897 |
| Place of Birth | Cuttack, Odisha |
| Date of Disappearance | August, 1945 (Taihoku, Taiwan – controversial) |
| Education | University of Calcutta, University of Cambridge |
| ICS Examination | Cleared Indian Civil Services exam in 1920; resigned in 1921 |
| Entry into Freedom Movement | Joined Indian national movement in 1921 |
| Political Association | Indian National Congress (initially) |
| INC President | 1938 (Haripura Session), 1939 (Tripuri Session) |
| Ideological Stand | Assertive nationalism; believed in complete and immediate independence |
| Differences with Congress | Ideological differences with Gandhian approach |
| Forward Bloc | Founded the All India Forward Bloc in 1939 |
| Indian National Army (INA) | Reorganised and led the INA |
| Famous Slogan | “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom” |
| Provisional Government | Formed the Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind) in 1943 |
| Role in World War II | Sought international support against British rule |
| Political Guru | Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das |
| Contribution to Freedom Struggle | Militarised resistance, inspired revolutionary nationalism |
| Philosophy | Discipline, sacrifice, courage, and national unity |
| Parakram Diwas | 23 January declared as Parakram Diwas in 2021 |
| Legacy | Symbol of bravery, leadership, and patriotism |
Origin and Purpose of Parakram Diwas:
In 2021, the Government of India declared 23 January as Parakram Diwas.
Objectives of Parakram Diwas:
- To honour Netaji’s bravery and determination.
- To highlight his role in India’s freedom struggle.
- To inspire youth to follow values of courage, discipline, and national service.
Significance of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti:
Netaji Jayanti plays an important role in building national consciousness.
- It promotes patriotism and unity.
- It reminds citizens of the sacrifices made for freedom.
- It highlights alternative approaches within the freedom struggle.
Significance for the Youth:
For youth of India, this day offers strong educational value.
It helps them learn about India’s freedom struggle, the importance of discipline and courage, and leadership and responsibility towards the nation
Views of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on Indian Nationalism:
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had a strong and practical understanding of Indian nationalism. For him, nationalism was not only about feeling proud of the nation. Instead, it was about action, courage, and complete freedom. Throughout his life, Netaji showed that true nationalism demands sacrifice and responsibility.
First, Nationalism Meant Complete Independence:
To begin with, Netaji believed that Indian nationalism must aim for complete and immediate independence. He was not in favour of partial freedom or slow reforms under British rule.
In his view:
- Freedom should not be delayed.
- India must control its own future.
- Political freedom was the first step toward progress.
Next, Nationalism Required Courage and Action:
While Netaji respected peaceful protest, he felt that action was necessary when peaceful methods failed. As a result, he supported a more assertive approach to the freedom struggle.
For example, he believed force could be used as a last option. He also organised and led the Indian National Army. Thus, his nationalism was bold and fearless, not passive.
At the Same Time, Nationalism Was Inclusive:
Importantly, Netaji believed that Indian nationalism must unite people beyond religion, caste, or region. According to him, division only weakened the freedom movement. Therefore, he strongly opposed communal politics and promoted unity among all communities. His army reflected religious and regional harmony. In short, Netaji saw nationalism as a shared national identity.
Moreover, Discipline Was Central to Nationalism:
Netaji strongly believed that discipline was the backbone of a successful nation. Without discipline, he felt freedom could not be protected. Because of this belief he stressed organisation and order; valued duty and responsibility and admired disciplined national movements. Hence, nationalism for Netaji meant self-control and commitment.
In Addition, Youth Played a Key Role:
Netaji placed great trust in the youth of India. He believed young people had the energy and courage needed to change the nation. As a result, he motivated youth to lead from the front and encouraged them to put the nation first. He believed youth could shape India’s future. Therefore, his nationalism was young, energetic and forward-looking.
Furthermore, Nationalism Included Social Justice:
Netaji believed freedom had no meaning if people remained poor and exploited. So, he connected nationalism with social and economic justice. In his words and actions, political freedom must help common people. Poverty and inequality had to be reduced and the state must work for public welfare. Thus, nationalism meant building a fair and strong India.
Finally, Indian Nationalism Had a Global Outlook:
Netaji also believed that India’s struggle was part of a global fight against colonialism. Therefore, he looked beyond India for support. For instance, he sought help from other countries and at the same time he also supported freedom movements worldwide. He believed colonialism must end everywhere.
Conclusion:
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, celebrated as Parakram Diwas, is more than a historical remembrance. It is a reminder of what true leadership, courage, and national commitment look like. Netaji’s life teaches us that freedom and progress demand discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering determination.
For UPSC, APSC, and State PCS aspirants, understanding Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is essential not only to score well in exams but also to develop the mindset of a responsible and fearless civil servant. Parakram Diwas inspires every aspirant to rise above challenges and work selflessly for the nation.
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FAQ
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti is observed every year on 23 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of the bravest leaders of India’s freedom struggle. It honours his courage, leadership, and contribution to India’s independence.
Netaji Jayanti is called Parakram Diwas because the Government of India declared 23 January as the Day of Valour in 2021. The term Parakram means bravery, which reflects Netaji’s fearless and action-oriented approach to freedom.
Parakram Diwas was announced in 2021 to mark the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Its purpose is to promote patriotism and inspire citizens, especially youth, to follow values of courage, discipline, and national service.
For Indian youth, Netaji Jayanti offers strong educational value. It helps them understand India’s freedom struggle and encourages them to develop discipline, courage, leadership, and responsibility towards the nation.
Parakram Diwas reflects the ideology of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose because it highlights courage, discipline, and decisive action. The day symbolises his belief that true freedom can be achieved only through determination, sacrifice, and strong national commitment.
