Sri Vijaya Puram | January 24, 2026
Parakram Diwas–2026 was celebrated with solemnity, patriotic fervour and cultural grandeur at Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, on Friday to commemorate the 129th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The main function was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, at Netaji Stadium, highlighting the historic and emotional association of the Islands with Netaji and the Indian freedom struggle.
During the inaugural programme, a message from the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, was broadcasted. In his address, the Prime Minister paid rich tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, recalling his unmatched courage, visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to India’s independence. He underscored Netaji’s efforts in organising the Azad Hind Fauj and emphasised that Netaji’s ideals continue to inspire the nation in its journey towards becoming a Viksit Bharat. The Prime Minister also highlighted the special significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in Netaji’s life and legacy.
The event was graced by Admiral D.K. Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency, who attended as the Chief Guest. The programme was attended by senior officers of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, representatives of the Indian Armed Forces, students, youth, and a large number of island residents.
A key highlight of the programme was the felicitation of Indian National Army (INA) veteran Lieutenant Rangaswamy Madhavan Pillai, who served under the leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. The veteran was honoured in recognition of his contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his association with the Azad Hind Fauj, drawing warm applause from the audience.
As part of the Parakram Diwas celebrations, a month-long exhibition was inaugurated, showcasing Netaji’s life, ideology, role in the freedom movement and his enduring influence on the nation. The exhibition features visual displays and archival material aimed at educating visitors, particularly students and youth, about Netaji’s legacy.
The celebrations also featured a spectacular drone show. The drone display captivated the audience and added a modern visual dimension to the historic commemoration.
The cultural programme in the evening was marked by a series of evocative performances by eminent artistes from across the country. Legendary sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, accompanied by his sons Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, captivated the audience with a deeply moving rendition of Raag Bageshri. The acclaimed musical duo Sourendro–Soumyojit presented the timeless patriotic composition “Dhono Dhanyo Pushpa Bhara”, while popular folk singer Mangli delivered a powerful Shiv Stotra, evoking profound spiritual fervour. Renowned singer Papon paid a musical tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose through his evocative performance “Subhas Ji”. A specially curated choral rendition of “Subh Sukh Chain Ki”, the anthem of the Indian National Army, resonated strongly with the gathering, reinforcing the ideals of sacrifice and national unity. Eminent vocalist Smt. Pratibha Singh Baghel moved the audience with her heartfelt rendition of “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon”, while celebrated musician Raghu Dixit brought the evening to a rousing close with an energetic and inspiring performance of “Tiranga”, igniting patriotic fervour among spectators.
Parakram Diwas–2026 is being observed at 13 other iconic locations across the country closely associated with the life and legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, including Cuttack, Jabalpur, Kolkata, Kohima and Meerut, in addition to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The celebrations reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to uphold the ideals of courage, sacrifice, unity and selfless service exemplified by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
Source: PIB
