Brothers Against the Raj: The Untold Story of Subhas and Sarat Chandra Bose

Subhas Chandra Bose and his brother Sarat were among the most pivotal figures in India’s struggle for independence. While Subhas remains one of the most debated revolutionaries in Indian history, Sarat’s crucial role as a strategist and political mentor is often overlooked. Brothers Against the Raj is the definitive biography of the Bose brothers, capturing their remarkable journey through one of the most turbulent epochs in Indian history.

Leonard A. Gordon meticulously pieces together their story using archival records, over 150 interviews with contemporaries and family members, and hundreds of unpublished letters. The result is a vivid portrait of two brothers whose unwavering commitment to India’s freedom often put them at odds with both the British Raj and the mainstream leadership of the Congress. As the book notes,  

“For Sarat and Subhas, the battle for independence was not just political—it was deeply personal, a fight that demanded relentless sacrifice.”

Set against the backdrop of global upheavals, including World War II, the rise of fascism, and shifting colonial policies, this book explores how the Bose brothers navigated complex international alliances, including Subhas’s controversial engagements with Germany and Japan. Gordon skillfully brings out their ideological differences, their shared vision for India, and their enduring bond despite political rifts.

 “They disagreed on strategy, yet remained bound by a common dream—an India free from subjugation, an India standing proud.”

With its meticulous research and engaging narrative, Brothers Against the Raj is an extraordinary, insightful study of two of India’s most influential yet controversial leaders. It is not just a history book—it is a compelling account of revolution, resilience, and brotherhood that shaped the destiny of a nation.