Celebrating a Living Legacy: Lt. Bharati Asha “Asako” Sahay Choudhury, INA Veteran, at 97

Patna, July 20 2025

 “Both India and Japan have ancient histories. They should move forward together and become the greatest nations in the world.” mentioned  Lt. Bharati Asha “Asako” Sahay Choudhury, reflecting on the enduring ties between her two homelands India and Japan, while interacting with Jiro Kodera, Counsellor Economics, Embassy of Japan in India.

At 97 years of age, Lt. Bharati Asha “Asako” Sahay Choudhury remains a living embodiment of courage, resilience, and international friendship. Born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1928 to Indian parents, Ms. Sahay’s life bridges two great cultures India and Japan —and her story is deeply intertwined with India’s struggle for independence.

Lt. Bharati Asha “Asako” Sahay Choudhury

In 1945, as a young woman of just 17, Asha met the iconic leader Subhas Chandra Bose affectionately known as Netaji in Tokyo. Inspired by his vision for a free India, she joined the Indian National Army (INA) and became a member of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, the all-female combat unit that played a historic role in India’s freedom movement.

Now residing in Patna, Bihar, Ms. Sahay recently welcomed Jiro Kodera, Counsellor Economics, Embassy of Japan in New Delhi, who had the honor of meeting this extraordinary woman. In their meeting, she vividly recounted her formative years in Japan, her interactions with leaders like Netaji and Mahatma Gandhi, and the tumultuous era of World War II.

Lt. Bharati Asha “Asako” Sahay Choudhury with Jiro Kodera, Counsellor Economics, Embassy of Japan in India.

Her spirit remains as vibrant as ever. Reflecting on the enduring ties between her two homelands, she said,

“Both India and Japan have ancient histories. They should move forward together and become the greatest nations in the world.”

These powerful words underscore the deep cultural and emotional connections between India and Japan. Ms. Sahay’s life is not just a personal legacy but also a symbol of the shared values and aspirations of two ancient civilizations.

As India and Japan continue to strengthen their strategic and cultural ties, Ms. Asha Sahay’s story stands as a timeless reminder of what unites these nations courage, vision, and the will to create a better future together.