Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti

The birthday, or “jayanti”, of Subhas Chandra Bose is a public holiday in three states of India, kept every 23 January. The name “Netaji” was a title often ascribed to this national hero of India during his life. In 2027, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti falls on Saturday 23 January. The holiday will be on Sunday 23 January in 2028. Subhas Chandra Bose ranks among the best known of all of India’s independence era leaders. He promoted the ideals of independence in the Indian National Congress in the 1920’s and 1930’s and became its president in 1938. But he was ousted by the British colonial government in 1939 due to certain “unapproved events” he was planning. Netaji is also a somewhat controversial figure, however. He carried on relations with the Nazis and with the Imperial Japanese during World War II, although he seems to have done so to gain their support to build up an Indian National Army. He is famous for his quotes, such as “Freedom is not given, it is taken”, “Give me your blood and I will give you your freedom”, and “Glory to India!” Every year, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti is the occasion of special school and college events. There are many parades, performances of musical bands, cultural events, and Netaji film festivals at local theatres.