Who Formed Azad Hind Fauj

Who Formed Azad Hind Fauj

Azad Hind Fauj, or the Indian National Army (INA), was established by Subhas Chandra Bose. It is said that a group of nationalists formed the body in Southeast Asia during WWII, and their aim was to free India from British rule through military means.

It was in 1943 when he assumed command over INA and reorganized it with Japanese help; under his guidance, it fought along with Japanese troops against the British in Burma and India. Although its military efforts were fruitless, they were nevertheless instrumental in motivating Indians to fight for independence against British colonialism, which put pressure on them to grant freedom to India. His control of this army is one of those features that form part of his legacy as a revolutionary leader during this struggle for freedom in India.

History of Azad Hind Fauj

Azad Hind Fauj or Indian National Army (INA) has an interesting and complex past that is deeply intertwined with India’s fight against British imperialism. Originally, the INA came into existence during World War II at the hands of some Indian nationalists who were living in Southeast Asia, and its main purpose was to topple the British colonial government in India through violence.

Beginning and Youth:

The notion of a military struggle for Indian independence became popular among Indian immigrants and prisoners of war in Southeast Asia. Initially constituted in 1942 by Captain Mohan Singh, an Indian officer who had been captured during the Malaysian campaign by Japanese forces while serving with British India Armed Forces. He started enlisting Indian prisoners of war with the backing of the Japanese. Nonetheless, differences between him and the Japanese as well as -challenges within the INA led to its dissolution at the end of 1942 under Mohan Singh.

Subhas Chandra Bose and the INA

Subhas Chandra Bose’s magnetic charm and indomitable will made him one of the most important people in Indian nationalism. The Indian National Army achieved new heights during his reign over it, demanding its revival. For Bose, fighting with arms was not just an option but a necessity for India to be free one day. To create alliances with foreign powers was the way to go about it.

Then, in late 1943, after fleeing imprisonment by the British in India, Bose reached Southeast Asia under Japanese control. There he became head of the Indian National Army (INA) and revamped it with Japanese assistance. During this period of his dynamic leadership, the INA grew stronger with Bose being appointed as the Supreme Commander of the newly formed Provisional Government of Free India (Arzi Hukumat-e-Azad Hind) in October 1943. The INA adopted the slogan “Chalo Dilli” (March to Delhi) as its battle cry, symbolizing its aim to liberate India from British rule.

Military Campaigns:

In several campaigns, especially in Burma (now Myanmar) and the northeastern frontiers of India, the INA fought alongside Japanese troops. The battle of Imphal and Kohima in 1944 was one of the most famous military engagements. However, despite early triumphs the INA and Japanese troops were ultimately defeated because of numerous logistical problems, little help from the locals, and finally greater military loss for Japan itself during World War II.

Decline and Legacy:

In the year 1945 after surrendering, Japan disbanded INA and the British captured many of its members. For treason, the British colonial government decided to try INA officers in what was known as the infamous Red Fort Trials held in 1945-46. These trials provoked a wave of nationalism all over India, uniting different political factions and inspiring the struggle for independence.

Even if the INA was a military failure, at the same time it managed to serve its purpose of unifying the country and making Indians counter British rule. The valor and sacrifice made by members of the INA along with those who took commands under Subhash Chandra Bose have been recorded in unforgettable histories of India’s freedom struggle.
Frequently Asked Questions

Azad Hind Fauj is the same as the Indian National Army.

Azad Hind Fauj which is also known as the Indian National Army (INA), was a military force established by Indian nationalists in 1942 aiming to oppose the British colonial authority in India.

Who founded Azad Hind Fauj?

In 1942, Captain Mohan Singh founded the Azad Hind Fauj in Singapore. It became well-known under Subhas Chandra Bose's leadership.

What was the main goal of Azad Hind Fauj?

The primary goal of Azad Hind Fauj was to secure India's independence from British rule through armed struggle.


Azad Hind Fauj key battles?

Some vital confrontations fought by Azad Hind Fauj were the Imphal and Kohima campaigns during World War II against British troops sent to Northeast India. Despite early triumphs, these operations failed because of supply shortages and massive casualties.


Why was the Provisional Government of Free India (Azad Hind) important?

Led by Subhas Chandra Bose, the Provisional Government of Free India was a symbolic surrogate government operating from abroad to showcase India’s status as a sovereign country in the international community. Several Axis states acknowledged it throughout World War II.

What do you think is the present-day credit for Azad Hind Fauj?

A countryman’s bravery and love for her homeland is epitomized in Azad Hind Fauj Mongolia's independence during those days in history. The contribution made by them during this fight, particularly when it was led under Subhas Chandra Bose, has been revered and kept alive in India’s historical events as well as cultures.

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