Today marks the 128th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a fearless patriot whose dedication to India’s freedom struggle has inspired generations. Born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack, Odisha, Netaji's revolutionary zeal and his famous call, "Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom," remain etched in India's collective memory. Amidst his celebrated legacy, however, lies a mysterious and controversial chapter: the theory that Netaji lived on as Gumnami Baba, an ascetic in Uttar Pradesh.
Who Was Gumnami Baba?
Gumnami Baba, also referred to as "Bhagwanji," was an enigmatic ascetic who lived in various parts of Uttar Pradesh for about three decades, eventually settling in Faizabad (now Ayodhya) in 1983. He passed away on September 16, 1985. Known for his reclusive lifestyle, Gumnami Baba’s identity remains a mystery, with some believing he was Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in hiding.
Why the Theory Persists
Several factors have fueled the speculation that Gumnami Baba was, in fact, Netaji:
- Physical Resemblance: Witnesses have claimed that Gumnami Baba bore a striking similarity to Netaji.
- Personal Belongings: Items found in Gumnami Baba’s possession included:
- A pair of round spectacles similar to Netaji’s.
- Family photographs of the Bose family.
- German-made binoculars, military badges, and an Indian National Army (INA) uniform.
- Letters from Pabitra Mohan Roy, an INA intelligence officer.
- Handwriting Analysis: Some experts, including American handwriting analyst Carl Baggett, concluded that Gumnami Baba’s handwriting matched Netaji’s.
- Testimonies: Several individuals, including former INA members, reportedly recognized Gumnami Baba as Netaji but kept the information secret due to an oath.
Investigations and Findings
Over the years, multiple investigations have attempted to resolve this mystery:
- Justice Mukherjee Commission (2006): Concluded that Gumnami Baba was not Netaji but found no conclusive evidence of Netaji’s death in the 1945 plane crash.
- Justice Vishnu Sahai Commission (2019): Stated that Gumnami Baba was a follower of Netaji but not Netaji himself.
- DNA Tests: DNA tests on Gumnami Baba’s teeth and handwriting analyses have been disputed, with some questioning their reliability.
The Controversy
Despite official conclusions, the Gumnami Baba theory remains contentious. Supporters argue that critical evidence was overlooked and investigations were flawed. Believers have pointed to personal items, correspondence, and eyewitness accounts as proof. Some members of Netaji’s family have expressed skepticism about the official narrative, while others have dismissed the theory outright.
Government and Court Actions
The Uttar Pradesh government and the Allahabad High Court have taken steps to preserve evidence linked to Gumnami Baba:
- Inventory and Preservation: Items found in Gumnami Baba’s residence were cataloged and stored as potential national assets.
- Museum Establishment: Plans were made to exhibit these items in a museum to allow future research.
- Digitization Efforts: Books and documents from Gumnami Baba’s collection were digitized for preservation.
The Legacy of Netaji
Netaji’s vision extended beyond India’s independence. He championed gender equality through the formation of the Rani Jhansi Regiment, an all-women combat unit, and advocated for rapid industrialization to build a strong nation. His inclusive leadership and forward-thinking approach continue to inspire modern India.
Conclusion
The mystery of Gumnami Baba reflects the enduring fascination with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. Whether he lived on as Gumnami Baba or perished in the 1945 plane crash, his legacy as a revolutionary leader remains untarnished. On this Parakram Diwas, as we honor Netaji’s courage and commitment, let us also remember the importance of preserving history and seeking truth. Jai Hind!