Today marks the birthdays of Subhash Chandra Bose and Vir Surendra Sai. Five years ago, on this very day, I visited the Netaji Museum for the first time.
Prior to my visit, I had heard and read about Subhash Bose, but I was astonished to learn about his affluent family background. His ancestral home was a grand estate with expansive gardens and even a stable for horses.
The museum houses a comprehensive collection of photographs documenting his life from childhood to his mysterious disappearance. It is an impressive institution, generously donated by his family to serve the community. In today's real estate market, this property would undoubtedly be worth crores of rupees.
Following my visit, I watched a film or documentary about Gumnami Baba. However, I still find it difficult to reconcile the image of a brave and fearless leader like Subhash Bose with the idea of him spending his final years in hiding. Is it truly conceivable that such a courageous individual would choose a life of seclusion?
The truth surrounding his disappearance may forever remain elusive. Speculations abound, ranging from a meeting with Lal Bahadur Shastri in Tashkent to his living in seclusion as the ascetic Gumnami Baba. Regardless of the actual circumstances, the people of Cuttack, his birthplace, will never forget this valiant son of their soil.
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