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Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam – A Life Beyond the Sky
Born: October 15, 1931
Died: July 27, 2015
11th President of India (2002–2007)
Title: The People’s President and the Missile Man of India
A Humble Beginning in Rameswaram
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in the sacred island town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner, and his mother, Ashiamma, devoted her life to caring for the family.
Kalam’s childhood was marked by simplicity, discipline, and faith. The rhythmic chants from temples, the call to prayer from nearby mosques, and the quiet waves of Rameswaram shaped his soul. Despite limited means, young Kalam was rich in curiosity and determination.
He sold newspapers to support his family and yet never missed school. His teachers saw in him a spark — a deep love for learning, especially in mathematics and science. For Kalam, education was the bridge between dreams and destiny.
From Student to Scientist
Kalam completed his early education in Ramanathapuram before pursuing physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. His passion for flight led him to the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT), where he studied aerospace engineering — a dream that demanded both hard work and courage.
Despite financial hardship, he persevered. That perseverance became the foundation of a career that would change India’s destiny.
Reaching for the Stars
Dr. Kalam began his professional journey at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later joined the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His work at ISRO made India proud — particularly the SLV-III project, which successfully launched the Rohini satellite in 1980, marking India’s entry into space technology.
Later, at DRDO, he led the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), which produced India’s indigenous missiles — Agni, Prithvi, Nag, and Akash. His dedication to national defense earned him the title “Missile Man of India.”
Kalam’s leadership during the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998 was another milestone. Yet, beyond the headlines and honors, he remained humble — a man driven by purpose, not power.
The People’s President
In 2002, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam became the 11th President of India, elected with overwhelming support. Unlike traditional politicians, he entered Rashtrapati Bhavan with a scientist’s mind and a teacher’s heart.
He opened the doors of the presidency to the people — especially students. Wherever he went, he spoke about dreams, innovation, and a developed India. His books, including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and India 2020, continue to guide young readers toward ambition and integrity.
As President, Kalam blended science with compassion, policy with purpose, and vision with humility. To millions, he was not just a leader but an inspiration — a father figure who believed in the power of youth to build the nation.
Faith, Values, and Vision
Though a scientist, Kalam was deeply spiritual. Growing up among diverse faiths taught him that religion should unite, not divide.
He once said:
“For great men, religion is a way of making friends; small people make religion a fighting tool.”
He drew strength from the Bhagavad Gita, Quran, and Bible, often quoting verses that spoke of peace and purpose. His spirituality was simple — rooted in service, humility, and universal harmony.
The Teacher Who Never Retired
After his presidency, Dr. Kalam returned to teaching — his true calling. He traveled tirelessly to schools and universities, meeting thousands of students, listening to their questions, and igniting their minds.
He believed, “The youth of today are the architects of tomorrow’s India.” His words were not mere speeches — they were sparks that lit a million dreams.
The Final Lecture
On July 27, 2015, Dr. Kalam was delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. In the middle of his talk, he collapsed and passed away due to cardiac arrest. Even in death, he remained what he always was — a teacher, doing what he loved most.
The entire nation mourned the loss of a visionary, yet his spirit continues to live on in every student who dares to dream.
Legacy of Light
Dr. Kalam’s life embodies the idea that knowledge and humility can coexist. He is remembered as:
- The Missile Man who gave India strength.
- The People’s President who connected hearts.
- The Teacher who ignited young minds.
- The Visionary who dreamed of a developed India.
His birthday, October 15, is celebrated as World Students’ Day, honoring his eternal bond with learners everywhere.
In His Own Words
“Dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep.”
“You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”
“Great dreams of great dreamers are always transcended.”
“Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”
Conclusion
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life was not built on privilege, but on faith, learning, and perseverance. From the sandy shores of Rameswaram to the grand halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan, his journey is proof that humility and hard work can lift anyone beyond the limits of destiny.
As we celebrate his 94th birth anniversary on October 15, 2025, let us remember his message — to dream, to learn, and to serve.
Because as Dr. Kalam reminded us, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”
