Celebrations mark the 76th anniversary of the formation of the Azad Hind Government, on October 21st, 2019, at the Red Fort, Delhi. It was just last year, on October 21st, 2018, that the Prime Minister of India hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort and unveiled a plaque in commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of this momentous formation. This historical event played a pivotal role in the struggle for independence, marking an era spearheaded by the visionary leader, Subhash Chandra Bose.
The Birth of Azad Hind Government
On October 21st, 1943, Subhash Chandra Bose announced the birth of the Provisional Government of Azad Hind (Free India) in Singapore. He assumed the title and functions of the Head of State, Prime Minister, and Minister of War. For Bose, the Provisional Government provided more than just a political platform. It allowed him to engage in diplomatic negotiations with the Japanese on par and also offered a way to mobilize Indians in East Asia to join and support the Indian National Army (INA).
Subhash Chandra Bose – The Visionary in Exile
Bose led the struggle for independence not from his home country, but from foreign lands. He saw in the chaos of the Second World War, an opportunity to liberate India. Despite being put under house arrest in 1940, Bose managed to escape to Berlin on March 28, 1941. In Germany, the Indian community hailed him as their leader, greeting him with shouts of ‘Jai Hind’ (Salute to the motherland).
Formation of the Indian Independence League and the INA
In 1942, the seeds of the Indian Independence League were sown, and a decision was made to form the Indian National Army (INA) for India’s liberation. Subhash Chandra Bose, on an invitation from Ras Bihari Bose, travelled to East Asia on June 13, 1943. Here, he was made president of the Indian Independence League and the leader of the INA, affectionately referred to as the ‘Azad Hind Fauj’. His famous battle cry, ‘Chalo Dilli’ (Let’s go to Delhi), echoed across the ranks.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1940 | Bose put under house arrest |
| 1941 | Bose escapes to Berlin |
| 1942 | Indian Independence League formed |
| 1943 | Formation of Azad Hind Government |
The Promise of Freedom
Subhash Chandra Bose not only gave speeches but also made promises to his fellow Indians. He ensured their independence with his powerful words, ‘tum mujhe khoon do, main tumhe Azadi dunga’ (You give me blood, I will give you freedom). Today, these words serve as a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles endured in the quest for freedom.
