On the occasion of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary, significant information has emerged regarding the contribution of Bhagalpur, Bihar, to India’s freedom struggle. The region’s involvement was not limited to mere movements but extended to the formation and operation of the Azad Hind Fauj.
Anand Mohan Sahay’s Pivotal Role in Azad Hind Fauj’s Foundation
Anand Mohan Sahay, a resident of Purani Sarai, Nathnagar, was a key figure in laying the foundation of the Azad Hind Fauj under Netaji’s patronage. He served as Netaji’s political advisor and guided the armed revolution against British rule from Japan.
‘Lal Gulab’: A Hub of Secret Activities in Nathnagar
According to senior journalist Rajendra Singh, ‘Lal Gulab’ in Nathnagar was a powerful center for secret activities during the freedom movement. The revolutionary spark that ignited from ‘Lal Gulab’ connected many youths to the clandestine missions of the Azad Hind Fauj.
Family and Individual Contributions from Bhagalpur
The Jahaji brothers, Mir Murtuza and Mir Mubarak, from Naraga Mohalla, Nathnagar, were also actively involved. Despite being employed under British rule, both brothers secretly participated in Netaji’s mission. Anand Mohan Sahay’s entire family was deeply patriotic. His wife, Sati Sen, and daughter, Bharti Chaudhary (also known as Asha Sahay), actively contributed to the freedom struggle. Asha Sahay, born in Kobe, Japan, in 1928, met Netaji at the age of 15 and joined the Rani Jhansi Regiment of the Azad Hind Fauj at 17.
