If Mahatma Gandhi struggled for India's independence through non-violent means, Subhas Chandra Bose was the total opposite. Somewhat.

He believed in using force to oust the British colonialists. Not popular among Gandhi's circle of friends, Bose however is still admired by many in India for his valor.

Born on January 23, 1897, he was considered a radical for his time. Here are some things you probably never knew about India's freedom fighter.

He Was Intelligent


In school, Bose was known to be an excellent student who excelled in his studies. He often got the highest ranks in school, which he then replicated in university. In 1918, he received a BA in Philosophy with first class honours.

Expelled From Congress Leadership Positions


Starting out as a young, fiery and outspoken leader of the Indian National Congress before becoming president in 1938, Bose was unfortunately removed from his leadership posts in 1939 after criticizing Gandhi's and the Congress' policies.

Jailed Numerous Times


Unlike Gandhi who had enjoyed some extent of freedom, Bose was jailed a total of 11 times between 1921 to 1941 for demanding India's independence.

He Met Adolph Hitler


Bose is famously known for escaping his imprisonment and travelling to the Soviet Union, Germany and Japan to obtain support to oust the British from India. This was when he formed the Azad Hind Fauj aka the Indian National Army (INA). Majority of the soldiers were Indian prisoners of war whom he freed from Singapore, Malaya, and other parts of Southeast Asia.

He "Freed" Several Places


The Japanese assisted Bose greatly in his cause because together with the INA, he "freed" Andaman and Nicobar Islands and was at the doorstep of India before he was thwarted in Manipur by the British.

Inspired by the Bhagavad Gita


Bose was inspired greatly by the Hindu holy text. He was also an ardent follower of Swami Vivekananda's teachings. Part of his nationalist ideals came from this spiritual teacher who provided him the needed vision in his life.

Until today, many still debate if Bose did the right thing. However, all can agree that he certainly had the courage that can never been found in the hearts of many of contemporary Indian leaders.

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Article Source: India Today