125th Birth Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | January 23, 2021 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 25 |
| Quantity | 504,000 |
| Perforation | 13½ x 13 |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Shri Kamleshwar Singh Smt. Alka Sharma |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3719 Stamp Number IN 3248 Yvert et Tellier IN 3396 Stanley Gibbons IN 3778 Phila-India IN 3745 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Independency Activists | Men | Politicians | Second World War |
Early Life and Rise in the Freedom Struggle
Born on 23 January 1897, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was a brilliant student and a charismatic leader from a young age. His deep commitment to India’s freedom brought him to the forefront of the nationalist movement. In 1938, he became the President of the Indian National Congress. However, ideological differences with the Congress leadership soon led to his resignation in 1939.
Undeterred, Bose continued his struggle against British rule. Placed under house arrest, he staged a daring escape in 1940, setting the stage for his international campaign for India’s independence.
Quest for India’s Freedom Abroad
Netaji arrived in Germany in 1941, where he established the Free India Centre and launched the Free India Radio, delivering stirring broadcasts to awaken nationalist sentiment back home. He also formed the Free India Legion, composed of Indian prisoners of war captured in North Africa.
In 1943, with Japanese assistance, he took charge of the Indian National Army (INA), reorganizing it into a force that symbolized India’s unity in diversity—men and women from different regions, religions, and communities fighting under one flag for freedom.
The Provisional Government and INA’s Call
That same year, Bose proclaimed the formation of the Provisional Government of Free India in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, renamed Shaheed and Swaraj in honor of the martyrs and the dream of independence.
On Indian soil, the INA flag was hoisted in Moirang, Manipur, a moment that ignited the hopes of millions. Netaji’s fiery slogans—“Give me blood, and I will give you freedom”, “Dilli Chalo”, and “Jai Hind”—became rallying cries of the movement and remain immortal in India’s patriotic legacy.
Inspiration and Ideals
Deeply influenced by the Bhagavad Gita and Swami Vivekananda’s teachings, Netaji combined spiritual strength with political vision. He believed in democracy, socialism, and equality, envisioning an India free from oppression and built on justice.
Even his contemporaries admired his courage. Mahatma Gandhi called him a “prince among patriots”, acknowledging his unmatched zeal in uniting Indians for the cause of freedom.
The 125th Birth Anniversary Stamp
To honor his 125th birth anniversary in 2022, the Government of India issued a special commemorative postage stamp. This release marked the beginning of a year-long celebration of Netaji’s life and contributions, reminding the nation of his selfless sacrifice and unyielding determination to achieve independence.
A Collector’s Treasure
For philatelists, the 125th Birth Anniversary Stamp of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is not just a collectible it is a tribute to one of India’s greatest freedom fighters. It preserves his enduring message of courage, unity, and patriotism for generations to come.
First Day Cover
