Where Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Was Last Seen, 1941 History to Come Alive in Gomo

Gomo, Jharkhand: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary is being celebrated nationwide today, 23 January, as “Parakram Diwas” with grand events across India. This year, the celebration is especially significant as the Ministry of Culture has selected 13 historic sites closely associated with Netaji’s life, including Gomo and Ramgarh in Jharkhand.

Gomo Witnessed the ‘Great Escape’

Gomo Railway Station (now renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Junction) is not just a transit point—it stands as a witness to Netaji’s indomitable courage. On the freezing night of 18 January 1941, Netaji began his legendary “Great Escape” from British surveillance right here. It is said that this was the last time he was seen on Indian soil before boarding the Kalka Mail to Peshawar. From Gomo, he traveled via Peshawar to Rangoon and then disappeared into the shadows of anonymity. The details of his journey were kept highly secret, and his car journey is even mentioned in the famous Bengali book “Ami Bolchi”.

The Events of 18 January 1941

Historical accounts state that Netaji, accompanied by his nephew Dr. Shishir Bose, left Calcutta in his Australian car (BLA-7169) and reached Gomo via Topchanchi. Upon arrival, he held a secret meeting with freedom fighters in the dense forests of Hatiyatad. That night, he reportedly stayed hidden in the tribal settlement near Gomo’s local market to avoid detection by British spies.

ASI to Lead Special Programs

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is organizing special programs in Gomo. Assistant archaeologist Neeraj Mishra said that cultural and educational activities in Gomo and Ramgarh will introduce the younger generation to Netaji’s struggles and inspire them through his legacy.

These commemorations aim to revive the historic moments of 1941, bringing alive the bravery and strategic genius of one of India’s most revered freedom fighters.