Who was the first Person to address Gandhiji as the "Father of our Nation"?
VerifiedAnswer: Nethaji Subash Chandra Bose
Explanation:
The title "Father of the Nation" for Mahatma Gandhi holds deep significance in Indian history, and it was Netaji Subash Chandra Bose who first used this respectful address. This historic moment occurred on July 6, 1944, during a radio broadcast from Singapore, where Netaji addressed Gandhi with these immortal words that would forever become synonymous with the Mahatma's legacy.
During this radio address, Netaji said, "Father of our Nation, in this holy war for freedom, we ask for your blessings and good wishes." This was particularly significant because it came from someone who had ideological differences with Gandhi regarding the methods of achieving independence. While Gandhi believed in non-violence and peaceful resistance, Bose advocated for armed struggle against the British.
The context of this address makes it even more meaningful. Netaji was broadcasting from Singapore as the leader of the Indian National Army (INA), which was fighting alongside the Japanese forces against the British during World War II. Despite their different approaches to the freedom struggle, Bose recognized Gandhi's unparalleled contribution to the Indian independence movement and his moral leadership over the masses.
This title resonated deeply with the Indian people because it perfectly captured Gandhi's role in shaping modern India. Through his philosophy of Satyagraha, his leadership in major movements like the Salt March, Quit India Movement, and his ability to unite people across different sections of society, Gandhi had indeed become a father figure to the entire nation seeking independence.
After Netaji first used this term, it gained widespread acceptance among Indians and political leaders. The title became so popular that it was later officially recognized, and today, Gandhi is universally known as the "Father of the Nation" in India. This shows how a respectful gesture by one great leader towards another became an integral part of our national identity and historical legacy.
