Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday shared an article authored by Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan that highlights the life, ideals and legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, with a special focus on his deep association with Tamil Nadu and the contribution of Tamil communities to India’s freedom struggle.
Sharing the article on X, the Prime Minister said, “This is an insightful article by Vice President Thiru CP Radhakrishnan Ji on the greatness of Netaji Bose and also interesting details about Netaji’s association with Tamil Nadu.”
In the article titled “Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s ‘Parakram’ Must Guide Bharat’s Path to Progress”, V-P Radhakrishnan recalled Netaji’s lifelong commitment to India’s independence and his conscious decision to renounce personal comfort, including a prestigious career in the Indian Civil Services, to dedicate himself to the freedom movement.
The Vice-President highlighted how Rabindranath Tagore described Netaji as Deshnayak – the leader of the nation – recognising in him a rare combination of courage, moral strength and visionary leadership. He noted that when conventional political paths appeared inadequate, Netaji transformed the freedom struggle into an international movement through the formation of the Indian National Army.
The article emphasised Netaji’s strong emotional and ideological bond with the people of Tamil Nadu and the significant role played by Tamil leaders, soldiers and civilians in strengthening the INA. It recalled Netaji’s visits to Madras Presidency in the 1920s and 1930s, including a major public address at Marina Beach in 1939, which drew massive public support.
Special mention was made of Pasumpon U. Muthuramalinga Thevar, described as a close associate of Netaji and a key figure in mobilising support for the Forward Bloc in Tamil Nadu. The article also highlighted the sacrifice of young INA recruits such as Ramu Thevar, who was executed at the age of 18, and the contributions of Tamil soldiers from India and overseas regions including Malaya, Burma and Singapore.
The Vice-President further underlined the participation of women from Tamil communities in the INA, particularly in the Rani of Jhansi Regiment. He cited the inspiring roles of women leaders such as Captain Lakshmi Sahgal, Janaky Thevar, Saraswathi Rajamani and others, noting that Netaji’s vision promoted equality, rejected caste divisions and encouraged women to serve alongside men.
The article observed that Netaji believed political independence was only the first step, and that the larger goal was to build a united, self-reliant and just nation. It connected this vision with PM Modi’s emphasis on shedding the colonial mindset and honouring India’s freedom fighters, reflected in initiatives such as the observance of Parakram Diwas, renaming of islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the installation of Netaji’s statue at Kartavya Path.
In his article, the Vice President noted that Netaji’s ideals of courage, sacrifice and national unity continue to inspire India’s journey towards progress, reaffirming that his legacy lives on through the collective resolve of the nation.
