Azad Hind Day is celebrated in India to honor the formation of the Azad Hind Government, an independent provisional government established during World War II under the leadership of Subhas Chandra Bose. The government, known as Arzi Hukumat-e-Azad Hind, was inaugurated on October 21, 1943, and it represented a significant moment in India's struggle for independence from British rule. This day is a tribute to Bose’s vision for a free and sovereign India and to the contributions of the Indian National Army (INA).

Historical Background:

1. Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army (INA):

   • Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent nationalist leader, was an ardent advocate for India’s complete independence from British colonial rule. He believed that an armed struggle was essential to achieve this goal and sought international alliances to support India’s freedom movement.
   • The INA was originally formed by Indian prisoners of war captured by Japanese forces during their campaigns in Southeast Asia. Bose reorganized the INA with the support of Japan and other Axis powers, envisioning it as the military force that would liberate India from British occupation.

2. Formation of the Azad Hind Government:

   • On October 21, 1943, in Singapore, Bose formally established the Provisional Government of Free India, also known as the Azad Hind Government. The government was declared independent of British rule and aimed to rally international support for India's independence.
   • The Azad Hind Government was recognized by several Axis powers, including Germany, Japan, Italy, and Burma. It sought to garner military and diplomatic backing to challenge British authority in India.
   • Bose served as the Head of State, Prime Minister, and Minister of War for this government. The INA was its military arm, and its soldiers were involved in several battles against British forces in northeastern India.

3. Objectives and Goals:

   • The primary goal of the Azad Hind Government was to secure India's independence through military efforts and international alliances.
   • The government had its own administration, postage stamps, currency, and even a cabinet of ministers, symbolizing a functional government in exile. Bose’s efforts were aimed at creating a legitimate national government that could serve as the face of an independent India in the international arena.

4. Azad Hind Government's Campaign:

   • The INA fought alongside Japanese forces in campaigns in Burma (Myanmar) and northeastern India. The most notable battle was the Battle of Imphal and the Battle of Kohima in 1944, where INA troops sought to enter British-controlled India. Despite initial successes, the campaign ultimately failed due to a lack of supplies and reinforcements, and the INA faced defeat as the Allies regained control of the region.
   • Bose’s leadership and his slogan “Chalo Delhi” (March to Delhi) inspired many Indians to join the INA, and his call for sacrifice and determination resonated with the Indian populace.

5. Legacy of Azad Hind and Subhas Chandra Bose:

   • Although the military efforts of the Azad Hind Government and INA were not successful in defeating the British, they played a crucial role in inspiring nationalist sentiments across India. The soldiers of the INA were viewed as heroes, and their sacrifices became a symbol of India’s fight for freedom.
   • After World War II, many INA soldiers were captured, and the British government held trials for treason, known as the INA Trials. These trials triggered widespread protests across India and intensified the demand for independence. The mass support for the INA soldiers during these trials contributed to weakening British control and hastened the eventual granting of independence in 1947.

Celebrations and Observance of Azad Hind Day:

1. National Recognition:

   • Azad Hind Day is observed to remember and honor Subhas Chandra Bose’s contributions and the formation of the Azad Hind Government. The day is particularly significant in places closely associated with Bose’s legacy, such as West Bengal and various parts of northeastern India.
   • On this day, various government and non-governmental organizations hold events, discussions, and commemorations to remember the role of the Azad Hind Government in India’s independence movement.

2. Official Commemoration:

   • In recent years, the Indian government has made efforts to revive Bose’s legacy and commemorate his role in the independence struggle. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in particular, has paid tribute to Bose and the Azad Hind Government in various speeches and events.
   • The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, observed annually on January 23, is also closely linked with Azad Hind Day, as both celebrate Bose’s leadership and vision for a free India.

3. Public and Cultural Impact:

   • The day is marked with tributes, speeches, parades, and cultural events to honor the bravery and sacrifices of the INA soldiers. Films, documentaries, and books recounting the life of Bose and the struggles of the INA are also highlighted during this time.
   • Azad Hind Fauj marches and reenactments of historic events connected to the INA are sometimes organized, especially in regions like West Bengal, where Bose remains a revered figure.

4. Museums and Memorials:

   • Several museums across India, including the Netaji Bhawan in Kolkata, commemorate the life and times of Subhas Chandra Bose and the INA. These museums often host special exhibitions and educational programs on Azad Hind Day to educate people about Bose’s role in the freedom movement.
   • The INA Memorial in Singapore also serves as an important site where Bose’s declaration of the Azad Hind Government took place. This site and others associated with the INA are sometimes highlighted during observances of the day.

Symbolism of Azad Hind Day:

• Nationalism and Freedom: Azad Hind Day symbolizes the unrelenting quest for freedom and the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters. The formation of the Azad Hind Government underlines Bose’s commitment to achieving independence, no matter the cost.
• Subhas Chandra Bose’s Leadership: Bose’s vision of a free India and his unconventional path to independence — through military and international alliances — is at the heart of this commemoration. His willingness to challenge British rule on a global stage and rally the support of Axis powers remains a controversial but key part of his legacy.
• Inspiration for Future Generations: The courage and determination of the INA and Bose continue to inspire many Indians. Azad Hind Day serves as a reminder of the importance of patriotism, unity, and resilience in the face of oppression.

Conclusion:

Azad Hind Day marks a critical moment in India’s independence struggle, honoring the formation of a government-in-exile that challenged British colonial rule. Subhas Chandra Bose’s visionary leadership and the bravery of the INA continue to be celebrated, making this day an important part of India’s rich history of freedom fighters. The legacy of the Azad Hind Government and the sacrifices of its soldiers symbolize the undying spirit of India's fight for independence.