2. The celebrations were held in partnership with the Netaji Service Centre, Netaji Welfare Foundation, Malaysia-India Heritage Group, Malaysian Bengalee Association, Kelab Rekreasi Abhijaan and the Royal Selangor Club.
3. The venue of the celebrations also has its own historic significance in this context. The Royal Selangor Club is situated adjacent to the Selangor Padang (Dataran Merdeka or Independence Square), from where in September 1943, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, in a rousing address to thousands of followers, inspired several youth across East Asia to join the cause of Indian independence.
He thanked the INA veterans for gracing this solemn occasion despite their advanced age. He highlighted how Netaji is an integral part of the historical linkages between India and Malaysia and that Netaji’s spirit of selfless sacrifice continues to be an inspiration for today’s youth. Four INA veterans, accompanied by their families were key attendees at the event.
Other INA Veterans Tan Sri Dato Dr KR Somasundaram and Madam Anjalai Ponnusamy, shared their personal experiences virtually. Excerpts of the Interviews of the veterans from the Rani Jhansi Regiment of the INA, Madam Datuk Rasamma Bhupalan and Dato Saroja Dev Param were shared virtually. The INA veterans were then felicitated by the High Commissioner.
6. INA Veteran Mr. S.P. Narayanasamy, who is also the Secretary of the Netaji Service Centre spoke about the unique leadership of Netaji and the important role of INA in the freedom struggles of India and Malaysia. Mr. Ratha Krishnan, President, Netaji Welfare Foundation, Mr. Prabhakaran S. Nair, co-founder of India-Malaysia Heritage Foundation, Mr. Dipak Mandal, President of the Kelab Rekreasi Abhijaan (Abhijaan Recreation Club) and Ms Swapna Das, President of the Malaysian Bengalee Association from the partner organisations also addressed the audience.
7. The Malaysian Bengalee Association and the Kelab Rekreasi Abhijaan paid tribute to Netaji via musical and dance performances with music infused with patriotic spirit.
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