Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 25 (HBTV): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid floral tributes to the statue of freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his 128th birth anniversary on Thursday.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Netaji’s slogan, 'Give me blood, and I will give you freedom,' served as a mantra for youth during the freedom struggle. 'Netaji is a respectable figure for every Indian when it comes to the freedom struggle. In 2021, PM Modi took the decision to celebrate 23 January as Parakram Diwas,' Yogi said during a public event marking the occasion.

He added, 'During the freedom struggle, the call of "Tum mujhe khoon do, mein tumhe azadi dunga" given by Netaji became a mantra for the people of the country, especially the youth at the time.'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid homage to Netaji. 'Today, on Parakram Diwas, I pay homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His contribution to India's freedom movement is unparalleled,' PM Modi stated in a post on X. 'He epitomised courage and grit. His vision continues to motivate us as we work towards building the India he envisioned,' he added.

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also paid his tributes, stating: 'Heartfelt tribute to the great revolutionary, founder of Azad Hind Fauj, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, on his birth anniversary. Netaji's leadership, courage, his struggle for social justice, his contribution towards tolerance and inclusion continue to inspire every Indian even today. My respectful salute to the immortal son of Mother India. Jai Hind!'

In 2021, the Central Government officially designated January 23 as Parakram Diwas to commemorate Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary.

This year, a grand celebration of Parakram Diwas is being held from January 23 to January 25, 2025, at Barabati Fort in Cuttack, the birthplace of Netaji. The event was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on January 23, 2025.

The multifaceted celebration honours Netaji’s legacy with events highlighting his 128th birth anniversary. The three-day event began with dignitaries, including the Odisha Chief Minister, paying homage to Netaji and hoisting the National Flag at his birthplace, now a museum dedicated to him.

The main event at Barabati Fort features a video message from the Prime Minister and a book, photo, and archival exhibition focusing on Netaji’s life. The exhibition showcases rare photographs, letters, and documents alongside an AR/VR display chronicling his remarkable journey.

Other highlights include a sculpture workshop, a painting competition-cum-workshop, cultural performances honouring Netaji's legacy, and screenings of films based on his life. The event also reflects Odisha's rich cultural heritage.

In previous years, significant initiatives were undertaken to honour Netaji, such as the unveiling of a hologram statue at India Gate in New Delhi in 2022 and the naming of 21 unnamed islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago after Param Vir Chakra awardees in 2023.

(ANI)