Swami Vivekananda was always a hero for Subhas Chandra Bose. He was inspired by the Complete Works at a very early age. In May 6 1932 he wrote to Mr. A.R Bhatt of the Mahratta, from Seoni sub jail, about his impressions on Swamiji. "I cannot write about Vivekananda without going into raptures." He said. "If he had been alive, I would have been at his feet." 'His personality was high, profound, and complex and it was this personality - as distinct from his teachings and writings - which accounts for the wonderful influence he had exerted on his country men, particularly the Bengalis. This is the type of manhood that appeals to the Bengalis as probably none other. Reckless in his sacrifice, unceasing in his activity, boundless in his love, profound and versatile in his wisdom, exuberant in his emotions, merciless in his attacks, but yet simple as a child - he was rare personality in this world of ours." He continued, 'And his love for his downtrodden people! That was ocean like. Do you remember that message of his, 'Say brothers, the naked Indian, the illiterate Indian, the pariah Indian is my brother.'...'Say brothers at the top of your voice - India's good is my good, - And pray day and night, Oh thou Lord of Gauri, Oh thou Mother of Strength, take away my weakness, take away my unmanliness and make me a man.!"
Adapted from Netaji - Life and Works edited by Shri Ram Sharma.
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