Abid Hasan Safrani: Netaji's Comrade and the Man Behind "Jai Hind"

By Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam 29 July 2024 Abid Hasan Safrani’s Life Is a Testament to The Power of Dedication and Patriotism. From His Early Days in Hyderabad to His Pivotal Role in The INA and Later as A Diplomat, His Contributions to India’s Freedom Struggle and Nation-Building Are Invaluable. His Creation of the Slogan "Jai Hind" Serves as A Lasting Tribute to His Vision of a Unified and Independent India. ----- Abid Hasan Safrani ------ Early Life and Education Abid Hasan Safrani, originally named Zain-al-Abdin Hasan, was born in 1911 in Hyderabad. His early life was marked by a strong academic background and a keen interest in the nationalist movements sweeping across India during British colonial rule. Hasan pursued higher education in Germany, where he studied engineering at the Technical University of Dresden. This period in Europe exposed him to various political ideologies and revolutionary movements, setting the stage for his later involvement in the Indian independence struggle. Meeting Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose In the early 1940s, Hasan's life took a decisive turn when he met Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose in Germany. Bose, a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, was actively seeking international support to overthrow British rule in India. Hasan was deeply inspired by Bose's vision and commitment, leading him to join the Indian National Army (INA), which Bose was organizing with the help of Indian expatriates and prisoners of war. Role in the Indian National Army As a dedicated member of the INA, Hasan served as an aide-de-camp to Netaji and was instrumental in various military and organizational activities. His proficiency in multiple languages, including German and Japanese, proved invaluable in the INA's efforts to coordinate with the Axis powers. Hasan's responsibilities included translation, intelligence gathering, and liaising with Japanese officials to secure support for the INA's military campaigns. Coining "Jai Hind" One of Hasan's most enduring contributions to India's independence struggle was the coining of the slogan "Jai Hind," which translates to "Victory to India." This phrase was intended to serve as a unifying call for Indian soldiers and civilians alike, transcending linguistic, regional, and religious differences. The slogan quickly gained popularity and became synonymous with the INA's efforts and the broader independence movement. As a senior officer in the INA, Abid Hasan was deeply involved in the military campaigns in Burma (now Myanmar) and other regions. He led troops in battle, demonstrating exceptional leadership and bravery. His efforts were part of the broader strategy to liberate India from British colonial rule by collaborating with Axis powers during World War II. Following the defeat of the INA, Abid Hasan was captured by the British forces and imprisoned. He endured harsh conditions and faced trial for treason during the famous Red Fort Trials in 1945. His mother, Begum Amir Hasan, played a crucial role in securing his release by appealing to senior Congress leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru Post-Independence Career After India's independence in 1947, Hasan transitioned from his revolutionary activities to a career in diplomacy. He joined the Indian Foreign Service and served in various capacities, including as an ambassador to Egypt and a consul general in San Francisco. Hasan's diplomatic career was marked by his commitment to fostering positive relations between India and other nations, reflecting the ideals of unity and independence that he had championed during the freedom struggle. Legacy and Recognition Abid Hasan Safrani's contributions to India's independence and his subsequent diplomatic service have been recognized and celebrated in various ways. He received posthumous honours for his role in the freedom movement, and his life story continues to inspire new generations of Indians. The slogan "Jai Hind" remains a powerful symbol of national pride and unity, underscoring Hasan's lasting impact on the country's collective consciousness. In recent years, efforts have been made to document and commemorate Hasan's contributions more thoroughly. Books, articles, and documentaries have highlighted his role in the INA and his close association with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. These efforts ensure that Hasan's legacy as a patriot and a diplomat is remembered and appreciated by future generations. Conclusion Abid Hasan Safrani's life is a testament to the power of dedication and patriotism. From his early years in Hyderabad to his involvement in the INA and his diplomatic career, Hasan exemplified the spirit of India's struggle for freedom and its aspirations as an independent nation. His enduring legacy, particularly the iconic slogan "Jai Hind," continues to resonate with Indians today, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices and efforts that paved the way for the country's independence. ----- A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance journalist. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-politics/safrani-netaji-comrade-jai-hind/d/132812 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism