Event Overview
- What: A three-day celebration commemorating Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Prakram Diwas.
- When: Starting January 23, 2026.
- Where: Andaman Islands.
- Key Features: A grand drone show and an immersive exhibition highlighting Netaji’s courage and legacy.
- Proposed By: Union Culture Ministry.
- Objective: To bring to life the journey of Netaji through advanced technology and historical exhibits, offering an engaging, educational, and moving experience.
Netaji’s Historic Connection with the Andaman Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold profound historical significance as the nation’s first symbolically liberated territory. It was on December 29, 1943, that Netaji arrived in Port Blair, marking a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence.
A day later, on December 30, 1943, Netaji unfurled the Indian Tricolour at the Gymkhana Ground (now Netaji Stadium). This momentous event symbolized the first time the national flag was hoisted on Indian soil by liberated Indians, fulfilling his solemn pledge.
In recognition of their liberation, Netaji renamed the islands:
- Andaman Island: Renamed “Shaheed Dweep” (Martyr Island).
- Nicobar Island: Renamed “Swaraj Dweep” (Self-Rule Island).
INA General A.D. Loganathan was appointed as the islands’ governor, signifying the establishment of the Azad Hind Government’s administrative control. This occurred within the context of World War II, during which the Andaman Islands were under Japanese occupation, with political control formally transferred to Netaji’s Azad Hind Government in November 1943.
Netaji’s visit also served to underscore the harrowing experiences within the infamous Cellular Jail (“Kala Pani”) in Port Blair, a grim reminder of colonial oppression. His actions invigorated the freedom movement, leaving an enduring legacy. In a further tribute, Ross Island was renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep in 2018.
The 2026 commemoration will appropriately take place at Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair) and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep (formerly Ross Island).
Prakram Diwas: Honouring Netaji’s Indomitable Spirit
Prakram Diwas, meaning “Day of Valour,” is celebrated annually on January 23rd, marking Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birth anniversary. Declared by the Indian government in 2021, it honors Netaji’s immense contributions and unwavering courage. The Andaman Islands serve as a principal venue due to their profound historical ties to Netaji’s journey.
Cultural Significance:
- Honoring a National Hero: A heartfelt tribute to Netaji’s relentless quest for freedom, his indomitable spirit, his leadership of the Indian National Army (INA), and the Azad Hind Government.
- Inspiring Courage and Patriotism: The celebrations encourage reflection on Netaji’s resolve, strategic brilliance, and profound devotion to liberty, serving as a powerful inspiration, especially for the youth.
- Promoting National Unity and Self-Reliance: Highlights Netaji’s visionary ideals for a united and self-reliant India.
- Fostering Historical Awareness: Events typically include flag-hoisting ceremonies, vibrant cultural programs, patriotic songs, historical plays, insightful speeches, and special exhibitions.
In 2023, significant commemorations included the naming of 21 unnamed islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago after Param Vir Chakra awardees, and the unveiling of a model of the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.
The Grand Spectacle: The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Drone Show Andaman 2026
The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Drone Show will be the centerpiece and pinnacle of the 2026 Prakram Diwas celebrations. This awe-inspiring event is designed as a convergence of light, advanced technology, and narrative artistry, promising a truly unforgettable experience.
The drone show is part of a grand three-day program orchestrated by the Union Culture Ministry, commencing on January 23, 2026. Its primary objective is to narrate Netaji’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy through an innovative and dynamic medium.
The execution will involve a large fleet of choreographed drones, meticulously programmed to project intricate patterns and captivating visual narratives into the night sky. This will transform the Andaman landscape into a dynamic, living canvas, telling Netaji’s story from his early days, through his leadership of the INA, and his significant association with Japan and the Andaman Islands.
The event will span two historically significant locations: Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep (formerly Ross Island). The latter is particularly symbolic as the very site where Netaji hoisted the national flag in December 1943.
Immersive Narratives: Beyond the Sky – The Drone Show Experience
Complementing the aerial spectacle, a comprehensive mega exhibition will provide an in-depth exploration of Netaji’s life. This exhibition will feature a rich collection of archival materials, historical documents, rare INA photographs, and influential books, offering visitors a detailed journey through his contributions.
The exhibition on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep is conceptualized as an immersive, walk-through narrative environment. It will integrate cutting-edge technology such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), allowing visitors to virtually experience pivotal historical moments. Imagine reliving Netaji’s 1943 arrival, witnessing the Tricolour hoisting, or observing INA formations through these advanced simulations.
A poignant section will also offer a glimpse into the harrowing conditions of the Cellular Jail during the colonial period, ensuring a complete and empathetic understanding of the freedom struggle. This innovative, multi-sensory approach is designed to maximize educational impact and profoundly inspire future generations.
Orchestrating the Grandeur: Organizers and Logistics
The entire three-day event, from January 23–25, 2026, is being led by the Union Culture Ministry, with the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) acting as the nodal agency. The chosen venues, Sri Vijaya Puram and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, are central to the historical narrative.
An estimated budget of ₹3.50 Crore, plus applicable taxes, has been allocated for this grand spectacle. AnSI has invited bids from specialized event management agencies on a “turnkey basis,” ensuring comprehensive planning, design, coordination, and execution of the entire program.
The scope of work for the selected agency will include intricate drone show choreography, meticulous exhibition setup, vibrant cultural programs, and insightful academic sessions, all designed to deliver a seamless and enriching experience.
Planning Your Visit to the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Drone Show Andaman 2026
Mark your calendars for January 2026! While specific timings, ticket pricing, and booking procedures are yet to be officially unveiled, prospective visitors can anticipate an awe-inspiring experience.
Accessing Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep:
- Location: Approximately two kilometers east of Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram).
- Access: Typically via a short ferry ride (approximately 10 minutes) from Aberdeen Jetty.
Pre-Event Insights (Existing Light & Sound Show):
For a glimpse into what might be expected, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep already hosts a light & sound show narrating the island’s history, including Netaji’s visit. Tickets for this are typically booked online via the Andaman Tourism website, with ferry departures usually around 4:00 PM from Aberdeen Jetty. Similar arrangements are anticipated for the drone show.
Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) Hub:
As the central hub for tourism and cultural events, Sri Vijaya Puram is well-connected. The Veer Savarkar Airport offers regular flights from major cities like Chennai, Kolkata, and New Delhi.
Peak Season Travel Advisory:
January is prime tourist season in the Andaman Islands due to favorable weather. Visitors should anticipate higher demand for flights and accommodation, and early booking is strongly advised to secure your plans.
For the most precise schedules, ticketing information, and detailed guidelines, visitors should regularly monitor the official Andaman and Nicobar Islands tourism website and local news outlets.
The Enduring Legacy of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose stands as an emblematic figure of India’s freedom struggle, symbolizing determination, courage, and unparalleled sacrifice. His famous quote,
“Give me blood, and I will give you freedom!”
continues to resonate with powerful contemporary initiatives.
The renaming of historical sites and the annual Prakram Diwas events serve as living monuments to his visionary ideals. Notable renamings include:
- 2018: Ross Island renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.
- Neil Island renamed Shaheed Dweep.
- Havelock Island renamed Swaraj Dweep.
- 2023: 21 unnamed islands named after Param Vir Chakra awardees.
Governmental efforts, including the proposed National Memorial, are strategically designed to enhance tourism by appealing to visitors interested in India’s rich history, effectively transforming the Andaman Islands into an open-air museum.
The drone show and exhibition are more than just cultural events; they are profound touchstones intended to re-ignite national pride, foster historical awareness, and inspire future generations with Netaji’s unwavering courage and exemplary leadership. This monumental endeavor solidifies the Andaman Islands’ revered position as a sacred land intrinsically linked to the birth of modern India.
Conclusion
The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose drone show Andaman 2026 and its accompanying mega exhibition represent a monumental celebration of valor, history, and national identity. The event aims to bring Netaji’s profound legacy to life through spectacular drone narratives and immersive exhibits.
This three-day spectacle across Sri Vijaya Puram and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep is a testament to India’s gratitude for its freedom heroes and an invitation to witness history illuminated in a spectacular and moving fashion. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip to be part of this unforgettable tribute.
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