- VP attends Parakram Diwas at Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
- Says honour over comfort defined Netaji’s life
- Launches book on Netaji and inaugurates INA exhibition
- Highlights Netaji’s lasting inspiration for Viksit Bharat
GG News Bureau
Kolkata, 23rd Jan: The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Friday attended the Parakram Diwas celebrations at Victoria Memorial, marking the 129th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said Parakram Diwas is not merely a tribute to Netaji but a transmission of courage across generations. He recalled Netaji’s choice of sacrifice over comfort, including his refusal to accept a prestigious Indian Civil Services post and his decision to relinquish high office in pursuit of complete freedom for the nation. He said Netaji charted an alternative path in India’s freedom movement by mobilising the Azad Hind Fauj and inspiring Indians to place honour above safety and freedom above fear.
The Vice-President highlighted Netaji’s deep connection with different regions of the country, including the South, and noted the contribution of INA soldiers from several districts of Tamil Nadu. He said Netaji’s life and ideals continue to inspire the youth to rise above fear, take responsibility for the nation’s future and work towards the goal of a Viksit Bharat, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision.
During the programme, the Vice-President launched the book Dad Remembers Netaji, authored by C. V. Ananda Bose. He said such personal recollections add a valuable human dimension to understanding Netaji’s life and legacy, especially for younger generations.
The celebrations featured cultural performances organised by the Ministry of Culture, reflecting Netaji’s clarion call of “Jai Hind” and his enduring influence on India’s national consciousness.
On the occasion, the Vice-President also inaugurated a special exhibition showcasing rare memorabilia associated with Netaji. The exhibits included Netaji’s fountain pen, his educational certificate and medals of the Indian National Army, offering a vivid glimpse into the life, ideals and sacrifices of the legendary freedom fighter.
The event was attended by West Bengal Governor C. V. Ananda Bose, Director General of the National Council of Science Museums Arijit Dutta Choudury, Secretary, Victoria Memorial Hall Anurag Kumar, Director, Indian Museum, Kolkata Sayan Bhattacharya, along with other dignitaries.
