Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s Biography: Birth, Death Anniversary, Accomplishments, Contributions, and More
Subhash Chandra Bose, fondly known as Netaji was born on January 23, 1897 at Cuttack, Orissa (now Odisha), India and died on August 18, 1945, in Taipei, Taiwan. He was one of India's most prominent freedom fighters who dedicated his life to the nation's independence. His bravery, leadership, and patriotism made him an unforgettable figure in Indian history. This biography of Subhash Chandra Bose explores his life, contributions, and the mystery of his death. If you want a short English biography of Subhash Chandra Bose, this simple and detailed account will help you understand his remarkable journey. This Subhash Chandra Bose biography will take you through the inspiring story of his sacrifices and achievements.
Subhash Chandra Bose Essay Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Jayanti 2025
Early Life and Education
Subhash Chandra Bose was born on 23rd January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha, to wealthy and prominent Bengali lawyer Janakinath Bose and Prabhavati Devi. His family was well-respected and well-off. Bose was known for his academic excellence and discipline from an early age. He studied at Ravenshaw Collegiate School in Cuttack and later moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata) for higher education.
In 1919, he graduated with a first-class degree in Philosophy from the University of Calcutta later his parents then sent him to the University of Cambridge in England to get ready for the Indian Civil Service and he passed in 1920. In April 1921, after learning about the nationalist unrest in India, he withdrew his candidacy and quickly returned to India. . This decision marked the beginning of his role in India’s freedom struggle, an important part of Subhash Chandra Bose's history.
Throughout his career, particularly during the initial years, he received both financial and emotional support from his older brother, Sarat Chandra Bose (1889–1950), a prosperous lawyer from Calcutta and a politician with the Indian National Congress (commonly referred to as the Congress Party). This Subhash Chandra Bose biography highlights how his determination set him apart as a leader.
Subhash Chandra Bose's Personal Life
About Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, it is interesting to know about his personal life. While Bose was deeply committed to India’s freedom, he also found love during his time in Europe. He married Emilie Schenkl, an Austrian woman, in 1937. Their marriage remained private for many years as Bose focused primarily on his political activities.
The couple had a daughter named Anita Bose Pfaff. Anita grew up in Austria and later became an economist. Subhash Chandra Bose’s family reflects his balance between personal commitments and his dedication to India’s independence. Though he spent little time with his wife and daughter, his letters show his affection and care for them. Bose's personal life highlights his human side alongside his role as a leader.
Subhash Chandra Bose and Indian National Congress
He participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, who transformed the Indian National Congress (INC) into a strong, non-violent organisation. During the movement, Mahatma Gandhi advised him to collaborate with Chittaranjan Das, who emerged as his political mentor. Subsequently, he took on the role of youth educator and served as commandant of the Bengal Congress volunteers. He also launched the newspaper 'Swaraj'. In 1927, following his release from prison, Bose assumed the position of general secretary of the Congress party and collaborated with Jawaharlal Nehru in the fight for independence.
In 1938, he was elected president of the Indian National Congress and established a national planning committee that developed a strategy for extensive industrialisation. However, this approach conflicted with Gandhian economic principles, which emphasised cottage industries and making use of the nation’s resources. Bose’s redemption occurred in 1939 when he won reelection against a Gandhian opponent. Nevertheless, the "rebel president" felt compelled to resign due to the absence of Gandhi’s backing.
Subhash Chandra Bose and the Freedom Movement
The journey of freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose began when he joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and worked alongside leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. Although Bose respected Gandhi’s beliefs, he felt that non-violence alone could not achieve independence. Instead, he believed in a more active and revolutionary approach.
During World War II, Bose sought international support for India’s independence. He travelled to Germany and later to Japan, where he formed the Indian National Army (INA). Bose's powerful slogan, "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom!", inspired thousands of Indians to join the INA and fight for the nation. His role in leading the INA remains a major highlight in the biography of Subhash Chandra Bose.
The Establishment of the Forward Bloc
The All India Forward Bloc was a left-oriented nationalist political organisation in India that came into existence as a faction of the Indian National Congress in 1939 under the leadership of Subhash Chandra Bose. He was recognised for his leftist ideology within the Congress. The main aim of the Forward Bloc was to unite all radical factions of the Congress party, enabling him to promote the concept of complete independence for India, while also upholding the principles of equality and social justice.
Formation of the Indian National Army (INA)
The creation of the Indian National Army (INA) also known as the Azad Hind Fauj, was a major milestone during the Second World War in Subhash Chandra Bose’s history. With support from Japan, Bose planned to challenge British rule through military efforts. 1942, he officially formed the INA to fight for India’s liberation and on October 21, 1943, Bose declared the establishment of the Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind), with the INA as its military wing.
Indian Army
The soldiers of the INA, inspired by Bose’s vision and dedication, launched campaigns in Burma and Northeastern India. Although the INA did not achieve its ultimate goal, it awakened a strong patriotism among Indians and weakened British confidence.
Bose’s leadership united people from different religions, regions, and backgrounds, showing his vision of an inclusive India. This effort by freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose is still remembered as a significant moment in history.
Essay on Indian Army: Short and Long Essay 2025 Speech on Indian Army Day
How Subhash Chandra Bose Died?
The question of how Subhash Chandra Bose died remains a mystery to this day. Official reports claim that Bose died in a plane crash on 18th August 1945 in Taihoku (now Taipei), Taiwan. The plane reportedly caught fire, and Bose succumbed to his injuries.
However, many people doubted this account. Several theories suggest that Bose survived the crash and lived secretly for years. The lack of clear evidence has led to debates and investigations, but the truth remains unknown. If you wish to know more, you can look for a Subhash Chandra Bose biography in English PDF for further details.
Legacy of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
About Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, it is important to remember his immense contributions to India’s freedom struggle. His courage, leadership, and vision made him a symbol of patriotism and sacrifice. Bose’s efforts to unite people for a free India continue to inspire millions today.
Netaji’s birthday, 23rd January, is celebrated as Parakram Diwas to honour his bravery. Several roads, schools, and monuments have been named after him, keeping his memory alive. His life teaches us the values of hard work, determination, and love for our nation.
Conclusion
This Subhash Chandra Bose biography highlights the extraordinary life of one of India’s greatest leaders. Netaji's contributions remain unforgettable, from his education and role in the freedom struggle to his leadership of the INA. The history of Subhash Chandra Bose inspires every Indian to value freedom and patriotism.
FAQs on Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Short Biography in English
1. Who is Subhash Chandra Bose?
Popularly known as Netaji, Subhash Chandra Bose was a freedom fighter whose ideology was not in line with the conventional freedom fighters. Although the conventional freedom fighters like Gandhiji and Nehru got their recognition Bose didn’t get the recognition he deserved. His impact in the freedom struggle has been impeccable and is noteworthy. However, because Gandhi was mostly never on the same page, his contribution is usually neglected. He formed the INA, the Indian Legion, and also almost acquired Hitler’s help for the Indian freedom struggle. He would be one of the martyrs India would never forget and hence his birthday 23rd of January is celebrated as “Parakram Diwas”.
2. How did Subhash Chandra Bose die?
The death of Subhash Chandra Bose is one of the most controversial topics today. Scholars believe that he died due to burns after meeting a tragic accident. Bose's plane which was of Japanese origin is believed to have crashed due to the propeller getting detached midway during the flight. The accident was a tragic one and after the accident, bose suffered third-degree burns. Medical help did arrive however, it wasn't of much help as Dr. Taneyoshi Yoshimi said that there were minimal chances of survival. Even after lots of treatment, the condition dint seem to improve. Unfortunately, Bose passed away on the 18 th August 1945 at the age of 48. His body was cremated 2 days later. The news left millions of Indians disheartened, agonized, and in a state of shock and trauma. All of the troops of the INA were disheartened and were in a state of disbelief.
3. What is the famous slogan given by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose?
Subhash Chandra Bose gave the famous slogan “It is blood alone that can pay the price of freedom. Give me blood and I will give you freedom” against the British.
4. Who or what influenced Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose to join politics?
Netaji was first influenced by the Swami Vivekananda when he was studying at Presidency College in Calcutta. He was also influenced by the works and life of Paramhansa Sri Ramkrishna Dev. Later on, his political initiation occurred at the hands of Chittaranjan Das who was an advocate of aggressive nationalism in Bengal. But he went to London to study for the IAS exam and upon returning he was greatly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi after which he joined the Indian National Congress by resigning from the government service.
5. What was the role of Subhash Chandra Bose in INA?
Subhash Chandra Bose raised the Indian National Army, also known as the Azad Hind Fauj and started an armed coup by inspiring thousands of Indian youths to join the army in India's struggle for independence from the British.
6. When and where did Subhash Chandra Bose die?
The exact date of the demise of Subhash Chandra Bose is not known but it is rumoured that he died in a plane crash in Taipei, Taiwan while returning from Japan. Although, it is widely believed that it was just a farce and he lived long years in disguise to see India gain independence from the British.
7. What is the biography of Subhas Chandra Bose (short)?
Subhas Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha. A brilliant student, he passed the Indian Civil Services (ICS) exam but resigned to join India’s freedom struggle. A prominent nationalist leader, he formed the Forward Bloc and led the Indian National Army (INA) during World War II to fight British rule. Known for his slogan "Give me blood, and I will give you freedom", Bose’s efforts inspired millions. He reportedly died in a plane crash in 1945, though his death remains controversial. Bose remains a symbol of courage and patriotism.
8. Who was Subhas Chandra Bose in 100 words?
Subhas Chandra Bose was a revolutionary leader in India’s freedom movement, born on January 23, 1897. A brilliant student, he passed the ICS exam but resigned to fight for independence. Dissatisfied with the Indian National Congress’s moderate approach, he founded the Forward Bloc and later revived the Indian National Army (INA) to wage an armed struggle against British rule during World War II. Bose’s leadership, charisma, and slogans like “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom” made him a hero. His mysterious death in 1945 remains a subject of debate, and his legacy inspires patriotism.
9. Who wrote Netaji’s biography?
Several biographies of Subhas Chandra Bose have been written, but one of the most notable is "Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero" by Anita Desai. Other authors, such as Sugata Bose (Bose’s grandnephew), wrote "His Majesty’s Opponent: Subhas Chandra Bose and India’s Struggle Against Empire", offering detailed accounts of his life.
10. What are the important lines of Subhas Chandra Bose?
"Give me blood, and I will give you freedom."
A call for sacrifice and dedication to India’s independence.
"Freedom is not given; it is taken."
Emphasising the need for action in achieving liberty.
"We should have but one desire today—the desire to die so that India may live."
Highlighting selflessness for the greater cause of freedom.
"It is blood alone that can pay the price of freedom."
Stressing the importance of sacrifice in the struggle for independence.
