Netaji Was a Leader of Extraordinary Calibre: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan
He said the country breathes the air of freedom today because of the courage, vision and sacrifices of leaders like Netaji.
Bhubaneswar: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Friday described Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a leader of extraordinary calibre, saying the nation continues to enjoy freedom because of the immense sacrifices made by valiant freedom fighters like him.
Addressing a gathering in Cuttack during the Parakram Diwas celebrations marking Netaji Jayanti, the Vice President began his address in Odia, drawing warm applause from the audience. He said he felt proud to be in Odisha, a state deeply associated with the birth and legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Highlighting Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, Radhakrishnan said the state is widely known across the country for its art, culture and history. He referred to iconic symbols such as the Konark Sun Temple, Odissi dance and Lord Jagannath, which have given Odisha national and global recognition.
“From the majestic Konark Sun Temple and the graceful classical Odissi dance to the sacred Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha stands as a living testimony to the great civilisation of Mother Bharat,” he said.
Recalling Netaji’s role in India’s freedom struggle, the Vice President noted that while Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi differed in their ideological approaches, both shared the common objective of achieving India’s independence. He said the country breathes the air of freedom today because of the courage, vision and sacrifices of leaders like Netaji.
“What a towering personality he was, what sacrifices he made and what courage he carried in his heart,” Radhakrishnan remarked.
Calling upon citizens to draw inspiration from Netaji’s historic “Dilli Chalo” call, the Vice President urged the nation to move forward collectively towards the goal of a developed India. He also expressed gratitude to the Odisha government for its efforts to honour and commemorate the legacy of the state’s illustrious son.
During the programme, the Vice President inaugurated a postal museum dedicated to the memory of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
