As Parakram Diwas approaches on January 23, the nation reflects on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s fearless legacy, a figure whose life has fueled countless screen adaptations across decades. Declared official in 2021, this day spotlights his discipline and devotion, themes echoed powerfully in cinema and beyond.
One of the pioneering efforts was the 1966 Bengali classic ‘Subhas Chandra.’ Under Piyush Bose’s direction, Samar Kumar brought to life Netaji’s journey from a promising student to a resolute patriot. The narrative traces his education, ICS triumph, and ultimate rejection of colonial service, presented with heartfelt simplicity that resonates emotionally.
Shyam Benegal’s 2004 epic ‘Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero’ stands as a benchmark. Sachin Khedekar’s award-winning performance, alongside Divya Dutta, captures the intensity of Netaji’s exile years. From fleeing custody to forging the INA with Axis powers, the film balances epic battles, diplomatic maneuvers, and inner conflicts, earning global praise and reminding audiences of his strategic genius against the Raj.
The digital era brought ‘Bose: Dead/Alive’ in 2017, a provocative web series starring Rajkummar Rao. Produced by Ekta Kapoor and helmed by director Pulkit, it draws from Anuj Dhar’s exposé to probe the 1945 plane crash controversy. Through a mix of archival evidence, declassified files, and dramatic conjecture, it keeps the debate alive, captivating viewers with its suspenseful take on whether Netaji truly perished.
Regional productions enrich the tapestry. The 2019 Zee Bangla series ‘Netaji,’ with Abhishek Bose in the lead, simplifies Netaji’s early awakening in Cuttack and Kolkata for young minds. Meanwhile, Srijit Mukherji’s ‘Gumnami,’ starring Prosenjit Chatterjee, delves into the shadowy post-independence probes by the Mukherjee Commission, fusing courtroom drama with poignant mystery. These portrayals, from big screens to small ones, ensure Netaji’s revolutionary fire continues to burn bright in popular culture.
