Courage, conviction, clarity. We can learn these values and much more from one of Bharat’s most fearless freedom fighters, Subhash Chandra Bose. Popularly known as Netaji, Bose’s drive, discipline and devotion for the nation truly made him stand out as one who walked the talk. He led by example, quit a prestigious career in the Civil Services and inspired millions in the fight for India’s independence. If he demanded sacrifices from Indians, it was only after he proved that he could boldly sacrifice first. How much greater this great nation would be if we could all live with such immense selflessness, with our actions directed towards a higher goal.

In 1924, when Bose was just 27 years old, he was sent by the British to Burma as they wanted to silence and isolate him in Mandalay Jail, because of his supposed revolutionary activities and his popularity with the masses. Two years later, in 1926, he wrote to his family from jail. Reproduced below is part of the letter:

Prison life is not as terrible as it may appear from the outside. On the contrary, it gives one ample opportunity for reflection and self-examination. In the midst of silence and solitude, one begins to understand oneself better.

We must have complete faith in ourselves. The future belongs to those who are strong in mind and heart. No adversity can defeat us if we do not lose courage.

Remember that suffering is not in vain if it strengthens our character. The present struggle will shape our future, and we must endure it with patience and dignity.

Do not be anxious about me. I am keeping good health and good spirits. What sustains me is the firm belief that our cause is just and that victory will ultimately be ours.

How many 29-year-olds do we know who are this reassuring and positive? This is one of the most important takeaways from the letter, for aren’t so many of us consumed by self-pity and pessimism? He made the best of a tough situation, using it as an opportunity to really try and understand his life, his aim and his reasons. It is this type of self-analysis that makes us courageous and gives us the ability to face anything that may come our way. Only when we look within ourselves do we stand a chance of finding that essential missing link that can strengthen our purpose. It sets the real heroes apart from the strugglers. 

Bose’s words to his family are almost a self-motivating monologue and they speak volumes on his clarity and integrity. The experience of many of us is that it is with our nearest and dearest that we often dare to let loose the barrage of emotions that stream within us; we let our guard down, cry, rant, vent and generally show our weakest and most vulnerable side. But here was a son of the soil who shared nothing but words of strength and hope with his loved ones. Nothing would deter him; that was very evident. He was clear about his purpose, and most importantly, he had faith in himself and did not shy away from playing an important role in India’s great destiny. After all, not all are born to lead the kind of revolution he took up. He strengthened himself from within and equipped himself with the most potent and powerful tool of them all—self-belief.