Subhas Chandra Bose and the INA: Forgotten Heroes of Freedom

India’s freedom struggle is often associated with peaceful protest and civil disobedience led by Mahatma Gandhi. But there was another, more militant path to independence, led by one of the most dynamic and controversial figures in Indian history — Subhas Chandra Bose. Revered as Netaji by his followers, Bose believed that only armed revolution could free India from British rule. His formation of the Indian National Army (INA) and alliance with Axis powers during World War II marked a bold and risky chapter in the independence movement — one that history often sidelines.

While Netaji remains an icon of national pride, the story of his army, their struggles, sacrifices, and dreams of a liberated India are still not widely known or acknowledged to the extent they deserve. This blog sheds light on that extraordinary effort to reclaim independence from beyond Indian shores.

Who Was Subhas Chandra Bose?

Subhas Chandra Bose was born in 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha, into a well-educated and politically aware Bengali family. A brilliant student, he earned a degree in philosophy and later traveled to England to prepare for the Indian Civil Services Examination. He passed with distinction, but declined to take up the post, writing to his brother, “I do not think that one can be loyal to the British Raj and be a true nationalist.”

Instead, Bose returned to India and immersed himself in the freedom movement. A charismatic orator and passionate leader, he quickly rose through the ranks of the Indian National Congress. Elected as Congress President in 1938 and 1939, Bose’s radical methods and vision of socialism clashed with the more moderate leadership, particularly Gandhi and Nehru.

He resigned from Congress and founded the Forward Bloc to rally support for his cause of immediate and complete independence.

The Journey to the Indian National Army (INA)

When World War II began, Bose saw an opportunity. In 1941, he made a daring escape from house arrest in Calcutta, traveling across Afghanistan, the Soviet Union, and Germany. There, he sought help from Nazi Germany, though their support proved limited. Realizing that Asia — and not Europe — held the key to his military ambitions, he traveled by submarine in a secret mission to Japan-controlled Southeast Asia.

In 1943, Bose assumed leadership of the Indian National Army (INA), an army originally formed in 1942 under Captain Mohan Singh with the support of Japan. Bose reorganized the INA into a professional fighting force and used his charismatic leadership to breathe life into a fledgling movement.

What Was the INA?

The Indian National Army was composed of Indian prisoners of war captured by the Japanese in campaigns in Malaya and Singapore. It also included thousands of Indian civilians from Southeast Asia who believed in Bose’s vision of a free India.

Key Highlights:

• Multi-ethnic and Unified: The INA became a symbol of unity among Indians abroad. Soldiers of diverse religions, languages, and regions fought side by side.

• Women's Regiment: Bose established the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, one of the first female combat units in modern history, led by Captain Lakshmi Sahgal.

• Symbolic Currency and Government: Bose declared the formation of a Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind) and even issued currency, stamps, and a national anthem to rally support and project sovereignty.

  
  

The INA marched alongside Japanese troops and even crossed into Indian territory during the Imphal and Kohima campaigns in 1944. Though militarily unsuccessful, their incursion marked the first time since 1857 that an Indian force had entered the subcontinent to fight the British.

Why Subhas Chandra Bose Matters

1. A Revolutionary Vision

Bose rejected half-measures. For him, independence was not a distant goal but a moral imperative. He believed that the British would never voluntarily relinquish power and that a direct, armed confrontation was necessary to break colonial rule.

2. Challenging Colonial Superiority

The INA’s very existence defied the myth that Indians were content under British rule or incapable of fighting back. By assembling and leading a professional army, Bose proved that Indians could be masters of their own destiny.

3. Pan-Indian Unity

The INA transcended religion, caste, and region. Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians served together, putting aside differences for a common national cause. At a time when British policies were dividing communities, the INA served as a model for inclusive nationalism.

4. Catalyst for Armed Forces Mutinies

The INA trials in 1945 triggered an outpouring of support across India, including among the British Indian armed forces. The 1946 Royal Indian Navy mutiny, along with uprisings in the army and air force, showed that colonial control over Indian forces was breaking down. This contributed to the urgency behind Britain's decision to quit India.

The INA Trials and National Awakening

After Japan’s surrender in 1945, INA officers were captured and brought to India for trial by the British. The most famous of these trials was held at the Red Fort, charging Shah Nawaz Khan, Prem Kumar Sahgal, and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon with treason.

Instead of being demoralized, Indians rose in solidarity. Massive protests erupted in cities across the country. Even leaders who had once disagreed with Bose, including Gandhi and Nehru, publicly supported the INA soldiers.

The trials galvanized nationalist sentiment and unified factions of the independence movement. The British realized that they could no longer count on the loyalty of Indian troops or the silence of the public.

Why They’re Often Forgotten

1. Controversial Alliances

Bose's association with Axis powers like Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan created lasting discomfort, especially in post-war, post-colonial narratives shaped by the Allies’ victory.

2. Gandhian Dominance in Historiography

The Congress party, which led post-independence India, largely shaped the official narrative of the freedom struggle. Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence was emphasized, while militant movements received less attention.

3. INA's Military Defeat

Though courageous, the INA’s military campaign ultimately failed. Critics used this to downplay its impact, despite the psychological blow it delivered to colonial rule.

The Mystery of Bose’s Death

In August 1945, Subhas Chandra Bose reportedly died in a plane crash in Taiwan. However, no body was ever conclusively recovered. Multiple commissions in India have investigated his disappearance, with conflicting findings. Some reports claim he died in the crash, others suggest he may have escaped and lived in secrecy under the alias “Gumnami Baba.”

The mystery surrounding his death has only added to his legendary status. For many, the unresolved end symbolizes the unfinished recognition of his legacy.

Legacy Today

Subhas Chandra Bose and the INA continue to inspire, especially in an era where global youth admire boldness and integrity. Their legacy is preserved in:

• Educational Curricula: Growing demand to include Bose and the INA in school textbooks and syllabi.

• Statues and Institutions: Institutions like Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology (NSIT) and INA memorials in Singapore and India honor his contributions.

• Films and Media: Documentaries and movies like Bose: The Forgotten Hero and web series have renewed interest in his story.

On January 23, India now observes Parakram Diwas (Day of Valor) in his honor, recognizing the fearless spirit Bose embodied.

Conclusion

The story of Subhas Chandra Bose and the INA is one of unmatched courage, vision, and sacrifice. They remind us that India’s freedom was won not just through negotiation and protest but also through armed resistance and international diplomacy. Bose challenged an empire with little more than conviction, charisma, and an army of patriots.

While they may not have captured Delhi militarily, the INA and Bose won a more powerful victory: they shattered colonial confidence and lit the fire of rebellion in millions.

As we remember India's journey to independence, we must honor all its heroes — including those who marched from foreign lands chanting “Chalo Dilli” with dreams of a free India in their hearts.