Subhas Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, India. He came from a prominent Bengali family and was the ninth child of Prabhavati Devi and Janakinath Bose. From a young age, Bose showed a strong interest in politics and social issues, which would shape his future career.
He received his education at the prestigious Ravenshaw Collegiate School in Cuttack before continuing his studies at the University of Calcutta. Bose later traveled to England to pursue a degree in Civil Service at the University of Cambridge. After completing his education, he returned to India and joined the Indian Civil Service.
Despite his successful career in the civil service, Bose was drawn to the Indian independence movement. He became actively involved in politics and joined the Indian National Congress, a political party that sought to end British colonial rule in India. Bose was known for his radical views and was seen as a key figure in the Congress's push for independence.
In the early 1920s, Bose established the newspaper Swaraj, which aimed to spread awareness about the Indian freedom struggle. He used the publication as a platform to advocate for greater autonomy for India and challenge British rule.
As his political career progressed, Bose gained a reputation for his outspoken nature and controversial tactics. In the late 1930s, he briefly served as President of the Indian National Congress, but his leadership style clashed with that of Mahatma Gandhi, the revered leader of the independence movement.
Bose's radical approach to achieving independence led him to seek support from Japan and Nazi Germany during World War II. He believed that aligning with these powers would weaken the British Empire and hasten India's liberation. However, his actions were met with criticism within the Congress and led to his expulsion from the party.
Despite his tumultuous political career, Bose had a personal life that was shrouded in mystery. He reportedly had a long-term relationship with Emilie Schenkl, an Austrian woman, with whom he had a daughter named Anita Bose Pfaff. The details of their relationship remain unclear, with speculation that they may have been secretly married.
Subhas Chandra Bose's dedication to India's independence and his controversial methods have made him a prominent figure in the country's history. Although his actions were divisive, his unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom continues to be remembered and celebrated by many.