Indian National Army Monument

Key Takeaways

Indian National Army Monument: A Symbol of Sacrifice and Liberation

Introduction

The Indian National Army (INA) monument, located within Esplanade Park, is a significant historic site marker that commemorates the end of World War II. Erected in 1995, the monument stands on the site of the original memorial dedicated to an unknown soldier from the INA. Destroyed after the war, the monument now serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the INA soldiers in their fight for India’s liberation.

Short-lived army

During World War II, the INA was established in Southeast Asia with the help of the Japanese in 1942. Following the British surrender in February 1942, the Japanese encouraged and coerced soldiers from the defeated British Indian Army to join the INA and fight for the liberation of India. Initially led by Captain Mohan Singh, the INA later came under the leadership of Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent Indian independence campaigner. However, the INA’s existence was short-lived, as it was dissolved when the Japanese surrendered in 1945.

The INA played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence, as it challenged the British rule and fought for the country’s liberation. Despite its relatively short existence, the INA left a lasting impact on the Indian independence movement and continues to be remembered through the INA monument.

A forgotten motto

The original INA monument was constructed at the Esplanade just before the Japanese surrendered. On 8 July 1945, Subhas Chandra Bose laid the foundation stone of the memorial, which bore the motto of the INA: Unity (Etihaad), Faith (Etmad), and Sacrifice (Kurbani). These words encapsulated the spirit of the INA and its soldiers’ determination to free India from British colonial rule.

Unfortunately, when the British forces returned to singapore later that year, the Head of Southeast Asia Command, Lord Mountbatten, ordered the demolition of the original INA memorial. This act was seen as an attempt to erase the memory of the INA’s contribution to the Indian independence movement.

The Significance of the Indian National Army Monument

Preserving the memory of the INA

The construction of the Indian National Army monument in 1995 was a significant step in preserving the memory of the INA and its soldiers. The monument serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the INA soldiers in their fight for India’s liberation. It stands as a symbol of their courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to the cause of independence.

By commemorating the INA’s role in the Indian independence movement, the monument ensures that future generations are aware of the sacrifices made by those who fought for India’s freedom. It serves as a testament to the resilience and bravery of the INA soldiers, who played a crucial part in shaping India’s history.

Remembering the forgotten heroes

The Indian National Army monument also serves as a platform to remember and honor the forgotten heroes of the Indian independence movement. While leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru are widely celebrated for their roles in India’s freedom struggle, the contributions of the INA soldiers were often overlooked or marginalized.

The monument provides a space to acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifices made by the INA soldiers, who fought valiantly against the British forces. It gives a voice to those who were once forgotten and ensures that their stories are not lost to history.

A symbol of solidarity and unity

The motto inscribed on the original INA memorial, “Unity, Faith, and Sacrifice,” embodies the ideals that the INA stood for. It represents the unity of the Indian people in their fight against colonial oppression, the faith they had in their cause, and the sacrifices they were willing to make for the greater good.

The Indian National Army monument stands as a symbol of solidarity and unity, reminding us of the power of collective action and the strength that can be achieved when people come together for a common purpose. It serves as a reminder that freedom and independence are not achieved by individuals alone, but through the collective efforts of a united nation.

Conclusion

The Indian National Army monument in Esplanade Park is a testament to the sacrifices made by the INA soldiers in their fight for India’s liberation. It serves as a reminder of their courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to the cause of independence. Through the monument, the memory of the INA and its forgotten heroes is preserved, ensuring that their contributions to India’s freedom struggle are never forgotten. The monument stands as a symbol of solidarity and unity, reminding us of the power of collective action in achieving independence. As we visit the Indian National Army monument, let us remember and honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for India’s freedom and continue to strive for a better future.

Address And Location:

Esplanade Park, Singapore
SG

Operating Hours

Daily