Union Ministry of Culture organised Parakram Diwas–2026 from 23 to 25 January 2026 at Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, along with commemorative programmes at 13 other iconic locations across India associated with the life and legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
The event marked the 129th birth anniversary of Netaji and aimed to honour his unparalleled contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his enduring legacy of courage, sacrifice and patriotism.
What is Parakram Diwas?
- Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour) is observed every year on 23 January, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
- The Government of India officially announced in January 2021 that Netaji’s birthday would be celebrated as Parakram Diwas to:
- Honour his indomitable spirit
- Inspire youth to act with courage and resilience
- Rekindle patriotic fervour
Parakram Diwas: Background and Evolution
- 2021: First Parakram Diwas celebrated at Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata
- 2022: A hologram statue of Netaji unveiled at India Gate, New Delhi
- 2023:
- 21 unnamed islands of Andaman & Nicobar named after 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees
- A model of National Memorial dedicated to Netaji unveiled at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep
- The Government decided to commemorate Netaji’s 125th Birth Anniversary year (from 23 January 2021) at national and international levels under a High-Level Committee headed by the Prime Minister.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti
- Celebrated annually on 23 January
- Famous slogan: “Tum Mujhe Khoon Do, Main Tumhe Azadi Dunga”
- Netaji:
- Qualified Indian Civil Services Examination (1919) but resigned in 1921
- Was inspired by Swami Vivekananda
- Began active political work in 1921
- Started Swarajya newspaper in Allahabad
- He was awarded the Bharat Ratna (1992), which was later withdrawn due to controversy surrounding his death.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: Biography
- Born on 23 January 1897 in Cuttack, Odisha
- Joined the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1921
- Opposed dominion status; demanded complete independence
- Elected INC President:
- Haripura Session (1938)
- Tripuri Session (1939)
- Resigned due to ideological differences with Mahatma Gandhi
- Founded the Forward Bloc (1939) to unite anti-British forces
Role in Armed Struggle and INA
- During World War II, Netaji sought support from Germany and Japan
- Reorganised the Indian National Army (INA) with Japanese support
- Issued the iconic “Delhi Chalo” call
- 21 October 1943: Proclaimed the Azad Hind Government in exile
- INA included regiments such as the Rani Jhansi Regiment
- INA fought alongside Japanese forces in Imphal and Burma campaigns
Imphal Campaign and National Impact
- INA crossed into India in March 1944, hoisting the tricolour at Moirang (Manipur)
- Although the campaign failed due to monsoons and logistical issues, it:
- Electrified Indian public opinion
- Inspired mass support during the INA trials at Red Fort (1945)
- Accelerated the end of British rule
Enduring Mystery and Modern Symbolism
- Official version: Netaji died in a plane crash on 18 August 1945 in Taiwan
- His ashes are kept at Renkoji Temple, Tokyo
- Conflicting commission reports have kept the mystery alive
- A 28-foot black granite statue of Netaji now stands under the Grand Canopy at Kartavya Path (India Gate), symbolising duty, nationalism and sacrifice.
Significance of Parakram Diwas
- Reinforces national pride and historical consciousness
- Highlights Netaji’s role in:
- Armed resistance
- Political mobilisation
- Internationalisation of India’s freedom struggle
- Inspires youth with values of:
- Courage
- Leadership
- Sacrifice
- Patriotism