In this gripping episode of History Rage Live, host Paul Bavill welcomes back historian and author Phil Craig to dive deep into the complexities of the Far East during the Second World War. Phil, a familiar voice from the podcast, returns to discuss his upcoming book, "1945: The Reckoning," set to release on April 24th. Together, they unravel the tangled narratives surrounding Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army, challenging the glorified myths that have emerged around his legacy.

Key Discussion Points:

The Controversial Legacy of Subhas Chandra Bose: Phil critiques the idolization of Bose, arguing that his alliances with Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan overshadow his contributions to India's independence.

Real Heroes of Independence: The episode contrasts Bose's actions with those of General Kodendira Sabaya Thimaya, who played a crucial role in the Indian Army's efforts against the Japanese forces, highlighting the often overlooked figures in the fight for freedom.

The Role of Propaganda: Phil discusses how the narrative surrounding Bose has been shaped by media portrayals, including a recent Amazon Prime series that romanticizes his life while ignoring the darker truths.

Red Fort Trials and Their Impact: The conversation examines the significance of the Red Fort trials in shaping public perception of Bose and his lieutenants, as well as their implications for Indian nationalism.

Modern Relevance: Paul and Phil explore how Bose is perceived in contemporary India, particularly in the context of political figures like Prime Minister Modi, and the implications of celebrating a controversial figure.

Guest Information:

Pre-order Phil Craig's book "1945: The Reckoning" here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/10120/9781399714495

Follow Phil on Twitter: @philmcraig

Check out the Scandalmongers podcast on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms.

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