In a bold departure from tradition, Bengal’s Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, bypassed the annual Red Road ceremony on January 23 and instead paid homage to Subhas Chandra Bose at Netaji Bhawan, the former leader’s ancestral home. The move, which coincided with Bose’s birth anniversary, has sparked debate across political circles and among the public, signalling a shift in how opposition leaders engage with historical symbols.
Background and Context
Subhas Chandra Bose, a towering figure in India’s freedom struggle, is revered across the country for his militant stance against British rule. Every year, the state government of West Bengal organizes a grand ceremony on Red Road in Kolkata to commemorate Bose’s birth. The event, attended by the Chief Minister and other dignitaries, has long been a platform for political parties to showcase their reverence for the national icon.
For Suvendu Adhikari, the opposition leader who has been a vocal critic of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), the Red Road event has historically been a stage where his presence was met with logistical challenges and perceived marginalisation. In 2023, he publicly complained that the ceremony was “a mere formality” and that the state’s security apparatus had been unwelcoming. His decision to skip the Red Road ceremony this year, therefore, carries symbolic weight, suggesting a recalibration of his political strategy.
Netaji Bhawan, located in the historic neighbourhood of Jorasanko, is the preserved residence of Bose’s family. The site has been converted into a museum and is open to the public. Visiting the Bhawan allows a more intimate engagement with Bose’s personal life and legacy, offering a different narrative from the grandiose state‑led celebrations on Red Road.
Key Developments
Adhikari’s visit began at 10:30 a.m. from Syama Prasad Mookherjee’s residence on Elgin Road, where he addressed a small gathering of supporters. He then proceeded to Netaji Bhawan, where he was received by Sugata Bose, the grandnephew of Subhas Chandra Bose and a former Member of Parliament for the TMC. Sugata Bose, who has been involved in preserving Bose’s legacy, guided Adhikari through the museum’s exhibits, including Bose’s personal letters, photographs, and wartime memorabilia.
During the visit, Adhikari delivered a speech that highlighted Bose’s commitment to “freedom, dignity, and self‑reliance.” He said, “Today, I stand in the very place where my great‑grandfather fought for India’s independence. This is not just a tribute; it is a reminder that our struggle for a just society continues.”
Adhikari also criticized the Red Road ceremony, stating that “the PWD workers throw off garlands unceremoniously, and the area is sanitized after our visit.” He added that the ceremony had become a “political theatre” rather than a genuine homage to Bose. In contrast, his visit to Netaji Bhawan was described as “authentic” and “respectful.”
Notably, the visit came shortly after former BJP leader Chandra Kumar Bose, another grandnephew of Subhas Chandra Bose, publicly slammed the state’s “ongoing SIR” (State Intelligence Report) as “sheer harassment.” Chandra’s criticism of the TMC’s security measures added a layer of political tension to the event.
Impact Analysis
Adhikari’s decision to skip the Red Road ceremony and instead visit Netaji Bhawan has several implications for the political landscape in West Bengal:
- Political Messaging: By choosing a more subdued venue, Adhikari signals a break from the spectacle of state‑led ceremonies, positioning himself as a leader who prioritises substance over pageantry.
- Public Perception: The move may resonate with voters who feel alienated by the pomp of the Red Road event, potentially broadening Adhikari’s appeal among middle‑class and rural constituencies.
- Student Engagement: Students, who are often the most politically active demographic, may find the visit to Netaji Bhawan more relatable. The museum’s interactive displays can inspire a deeper understanding of Bose’s ideology, encouraging civic participation.
- Media Coverage: The event has attracted significant media attention, with coverage spanning local newspapers, television, and digital platforms. This visibility could translate into increased scrutiny of the TMC’s handling of historical commemorations.
For students, the visit underscores the importance of engaging with historical sites beyond the conventional state‑organized events. It offers a model for how political leaders can connect with younger audiences by focusing on authenticity and educational value.
Expert Insights and Practical Guidance
Political analyst Dr. Rina Das, a professor of political science at Jadavpur University, notes that “Adhikari’s move is a strategic recalibration. By aligning himself with Bose’s personal legacy rather than the state’s ceremonial narrative, he is carving a distinct political identity.” She advises students and budding politicians to:
- Attend multiple forms of commemorations to understand the spectrum of political symbolism.
- Engage with primary sources—such as museum exhibits and archival footage—to form an informed perspective.
- Use social media to share insights from such visits, thereby amplifying their reach among peers.
Historian and author Prof. Anil Kumar Sharma adds that “the choice of venue matters. Netaji Bhawan offers a tangible connection to Bose’s life, whereas Red Road is a symbolic stage. Both have their place, but the former invites deeper reflection.” He recommends that students visit Netaji Bhawan during Bose’s birth anniversary to experience the historical context firsthand.
For those interested in political activism, the visit demonstrates the power of symbolic gestures. By choosing a venue that aligns with their ideological stance, leaders can send a clear message to their base. Students can emulate this by participating in grassroots events that reflect their values rather than merely attending high‑profile ceremonies.
Looking Ahead
Adhikari’s Netaji Bhawan visit is likely to influence the political narrative in West Bengal for months to come. The TMC may respond by re‑evaluating its approach to historical commemorations, possibly incorporating more inclusive practices to accommodate opposition leaders. Meanwhile, opposition parties may adopt similar strategies, using personal visits to historical sites to differentiate themselves from the ruling party.
On a broader scale, the event highlights a growing trend among Indian politicians to seek authenticity in their public engagements. As the electorate becomes more discerning, leaders who can connect with history on a personal level may gain a competitive edge.
For students, the key takeaway is the importance of critical engagement with political events. By attending both state‑organized ceremonies and more intimate visits to historical sites, they can develop a nuanced understanding of how history is used in contemporary politics.
As the political calendar for 2026 unfolds, observers will watch closely to see whether Adhikari’s strategy translates into electoral gains or sparks a shift in how opposition parties approach national icons.
Reach out to us for personalized consultation based on your specific requirements.
