ASIA-EUROPE INSTITUTE, MALAYSIA-INDIA HERITAGE SOCIETY HOLD LECTURE BY GRANDNEPHEW OF SUBHAS CHANDRA BOSE

KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Bernama) -- The Asia-Europe Institute, University of Malaya, and the Malaysia-India Heritage Society jointly hosted a lecture by Prof Sugata Bose, the grandnephew of the prominent Indian freedom fighter, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, at the Institute’s auditorium on July 13.

In his first lecture, based on his book “Asia After Europe”, Prof Bose, who is the Gardiner Professor of Oceanic History and Affairs at Harvard University, examined the artistic, literary, and political interactions across Asia following European colonialism.

He highlighted the rich connections between various Asian figures and the resulting universalism and cosmopolitanism.

In his second talk, “What Does Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's Political and Sociocultural Beliefs Mean for Multiethnic Societies”, Prof Bose discussed his granduncle Netaji’s advocacy for secularism and unity among diverse groups.

“He emphasised Netaji’s enduring relevance to contemporary multiethnic societies, underscoring his vision of inclusivity and cooperation,” said a statement by the Malaysia-India Heritage Society made available to Bernama.

Prof Bose highlighted that Netaji’s efforts to liberate India from British rule through the formation of the Indian National Army (INA) united Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Christians by assuring everyone equal rights and equal status.

He also said his granduncle united people from North India and South India and believed not just in the equality of different religious communities and linguistic groups, but also in class and caste equality.

“Additionally, he (Netaji) believed in gender equality, which is why he formed a women's regiment of the Indian National Army, the Rani of Jhansi Regiment led by Captain Lakshmi Swaminathan nee Sahgal,” he said.

The lecture which was attended by Founder-President of the Malaysia-India Heritage Society, Prabhakaran Nair was moderated by the Executive Director of the Asia-Europe Institute, Distinguished Prof Datuk Dr Rajah Rasiah.

-- BERNAMA