Mangaluru: A literary event celebrating the legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was held at Ravindra Kalabhavana, University College, Mangaluru, on Sunday, where three of his works were released in Kannada. The books — An Indian Pilgrim (Autobiography), A Rare Diary, and The Indian Struggle — were translated by Prof. K.E. Radhakrishna.
Health and Family Welfare Minister and Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Dinesh Gundu Rao inaugurated the event, calling Bose an “extraordinary leader” whose life and writings continue to inspire generations.
Minister praises Bose’s courage and vision
Highlighting Bose’s exceptional contributions, Rao stated:
“Netaji achieved extraordinary feats in his life. Despite earning the prestigious ICS degree in England, he chose to dedicate himself to India’s freedom struggle. At a young age, he became the president of the Indian National Congress. His writings must be read by all to understand his vision for India.”
Special guests emphasise Netaji’s farsightedness
Prof. Sumantra Bose, Director of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Trust, Kolkata, and grandson of Sarat Chandra Bose, lauded the initiative of bringing Bose’s works to Kannada readers.
“Netaji was among the most farsighted leaders of India’s freedom movement. Though Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji followed different paths, their ultimate goal was the same. The lack of literature on Bose in Kannada has now been addressed by these translations,” he said.
Event highlights and dignitaries present
Mangalore University Vice-Chancellor Prof. P.L. Dharma presided over the function, while Prof. K.E. Radhakrishna, the translator of the three works, spoke about his experience. Scholar Narayan Yaji introduced the books to the audience.
Other dignitaries present included BJP leader Capt. Ganesh Karnik, M. Rajkumar, President of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Trust, Bengaluru, and D.N. Shekhar Reddy of Sun Star Publishers.
The event was jointly organised by Mangalore University, University College, and the Mahatma Gandhi Foundation (R).
Programme proceedings
University College Principal Dr. Ganapathi Gowda delivered the welcome address. Kallur Nagesh of the Mahatma Gandhi Foundation proposed the vote of thanks, while Dr. Shama compered the programme.
The gathering witnessed discussions on the relevance of Bose’s ideals in modern India and the importance of regional translations to make his writings accessible to a wider audience.
Conclusion
The release of these Kannada translations is expected to bring Netaji’s revolutionary thoughts to readers across Karnataka, ensuring that his legacy of courage, sacrifice, and vision continues to inspire future generations.