An Untold Story: Netaji’s Historic Auction and Har Gobind Singh

January 26, 1944. Rangoon Municipal Building.
A grand felicitation was organized for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, the supreme commander of the Indian National Army (INA). A garland was placed around his neck. In his speech, Netaji said with deep emotion—

“Friends,
I am overwhelmed by your love. But I have one humble request—
This garland I wear, I wish to auction it. The money raised will go to the INA fund.”

The auction began.
First bid came from a young local Sikh, Har Gobind Singh—₹1 lakh. Immediately, a businessman named Brijlal bid ₹2 lakhs. The bids rose rapidly—3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 lakhs. Har Gobind called ₹10 lakhs, but Brijlal countered with a staggering ₹20 lakhs.

Har Gobind had no more money. All he owned was a small house and two trucks. He pledged them both. But Brijlal offered two ships, and it seemed the garland was his.

At that moment, Netaji called Har Gobind forward. Turning to Brijlal, he said—
“Brijlal, you own much, and you have given a portion. But Har Gobind has given everything he has—his very shelter. This garland truly belongs to him.”

Brijlal understood and stepped back. Tears filled Har Gobind’s eyes as he approached. Netaji embraced him warmly and placed the garland around his neck.

This forgotten episode remains only a footnote in history, yet it shines as a glowing example of sacrifice and patriotism.