On Parakram Diwas, India honors Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the fearless leader whose revolutionary zeal defined India’s freedom struggle. A vintage clip from 1997, shared by Modi Archives, captures then-rising leader Narendra Modi’s eloquent address at Netaji’s statue unveiling, explaining the vital role of national icons in sustaining a nation’s soul.
Modi dismissed superficial urban enhancements like fountains or gardens, stressing that hero statues are not for aesthetic appeal. ‘They are meant to mold the lives of coming generations,’ he declared, drawing parallels to how temples ignite spiritual fervor in villages.
His words painted a vivid picture: National heroes evoke an unshakeable commitment to the motherland, much like sacred sites foster devotion. This philosophical underpinning has driven decades of tangible efforts under Modi’s leadership.
As Gujarat Chief Minister in 2009, he kickstarted ‘E-Gram Vishwagaram’ from Haripura, echoing Netaji’s legacy. As Prime Minister, initiatives proliferated: a majestic hologram statue at India Gate, island renaming, Parakram Diwas declaration, file declassifications, and the Red Fort museum showcasing INA artifacts.
These actions transform rhetoric into reality, ensuring Bose’s vision of ‘Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom’ resonates today. Modi’s approach blends reverence with revival, reminding citizens that true progress stems from honoring those who sacrificed everything for sovereignty.
In today’s fast-paced world, such reminders are crucial for instilling patriotism and resilience in the youth.