In a momentous announcement that has stirred the hearts of millions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared today on Twitter that a grand statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose will be installed at India Gate, New Delhi. This tribute comes at a significant time as the nation celebrates the 125th birth anniversary of the revered freedom fighter.

At a time when the entire nation is marking the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, I am glad to share that his grand statue, made of granite, will be installed at India Gate. This would be a symbol of India’s indebtedness to him. pic.twitter.com/dafCbxFclK

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 21, 2022

“At a time when the entire nation is marking the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, I am glad to share that his grand statue, made of granite, will be installed at India Gate. This would be a symbol of India’s indebtedness to him,” the Prime Minister tweeted, sharing his excitement and reverence for the leader. Until the statue is completed, a hologram of Netaji will stand in its place. PM Modi will unveil this hologram on January 23rd, Netaji’s birth anniversary.

Till the grand statue of Netaji Bose is completed, a hologram statue of his would be present at the same place. I will unveil the hologram statue on 23rd January, Netaji’s birth anniversary. pic.twitter.com/jsxFJwEkSJ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 21, 2022

Subhas Chandra Bose, affectionately known as Netaji, was a pivotal figure in India’s struggle for independence. As the President of the Indian National Congress from 1938 to 1939, Bose’s bold attempts to oust British rule during World War II left an indelible mark on India’s history. The honorific “Netaji” (Respected Leader) was first used by Indian soldiers in Germany in early 1942 and has since become synonymous with Bose’s legacy across India.

Netaji’s efforts culminated in the formation of the Indian National Army (INA) or Azad Hind Fauj in 1943, which rallied thousands of Indian youth to join the fight against British colonialism. His stirring slogans, “Tum mujhe khoon do, main tumhe aazadi dunga” (Give me blood, and I will give you freedom), “Jai Hind,” and “Delhi Chalo” still resonate powerfully in the collective memory of India.

The upcoming statue, crafted from granite, will be placed under a historically significant canopy that once housed the statue of King George V. This canopy, situated behind India Gate and made from sandstone, was originally inspired by an 18th-century Mahabalipuram pavilion. The canopy has stood empty since 1968 when the statue of King George V was removed following India’s independence, symbolizing the country’s victory over colonial rule.

The Union government recently announced that the annual Republic Day celebrations would commence on January 23rd, aligning with Netaji’s birth anniversary. Since last year, January 23rd has also been observed as ‘Parakram Diwas’ (Day of Valor) in honour of Bose’s legacy as the commander of the INA.

The decision to install a grand statue of Netaji Bose, albeit late, is a profound gesture of gratitude to one of India’s greatest freedom fighters. This statue will stand as a permanent testament to his extraordinary struggle and the sacrifices of countless Indians who followed him. As the nation looks forward to this monumental addition to India Gate, the spirit of Netaji’s legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Jai Hind!