On July 27, we honor one of India’s greatest visionaries, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. As India’s eleventh president, Dr. Kalam was referred to as the “Missile Man of India.” He was a respected leader and a brilliant scientist, but he was much more than that. In addition, he was a respected educator, a visionary, and an inspiration to millions of Indians. His passing in 2015 left a hole in many people’s hearts, but his legacy will live on in the lives of future generations. Let’s revisit his life, accomplishments, moral character, and services to the country and our young people on this solemn occasion of the APJ Abdul Kalam death anniversary.
His Early Years: From Rameswaram to Rocket Science
- The narrative of Dr. Kalam demonstrates that regardless of one’s background, great achievements are possible.
- Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, on October 15, 1931, Dr. Kalam grew up in a humble household. Throughout his frugal early years, he frequently dealt with money difficulties since his father had a boat.
- He supported his family as a young man by working as a newspaper boy, but he always had a natural passion toward science.
- Despite coming from a low-income family, he was a bright student who was driven to fulfill his potential. He studied aeronautical engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology because he was interested in physics and mathematics.
His tale serves as an illustration of how any youngster from a small village can achieve greatness with perseverance and hard work.
The Man Behind India’s Missiles: A Career as a Scientist
Dr. Kalam has helped make India a powerful defense and scientific nation.
- He worked on India’s first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully launched the satellite Rohini, when he was employed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and then the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
- For his work on the Prithvi and Agni missiles, he was dubbed the “Missile Man of India.”
- Additionally, Dr. Kalam was in charge of Pokhran-II’s successful 1998 launch, which gave India nuclear capabilities.
He established the groundwork for India to become self-sufficient in space and defense technologies.
Presidency (2002–2007): A President of the People
Dr. Kalam served as India’s eleventh president, although regardless of his position of authority, he was always the same person.
- He was known as the “People’s President” because he always remained in close contact with the general public, particularly the younger generation.
- He worked with honesty, vision, and creativity, and he was unlike any politician.
- His trips to villages, colleges, and schools during his presidency gave students the confidence to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on their nation.
- While serving as India’s top constitutional authority, he voluntarily donated his entire salary to charity and led a modest life.
Dr. Kalam redefined what it means to be a leader — one who serves, not rules.
His Ordinary Life and Timeless Words: An Inside Look into Kalam’s Heart
Beneath the honors and achievements was a man of extraordinary intelligence, moral fiber, and straightforward living.
- Dr. Kalam, who dedicated his life to science, education, and the advancement of a country, never got married. He led a modest life, had few possessions, and even rose to the position of President of India.
- He believed in harmony and understanding. He was a vegetarian, loved classical music, and regularly studied the Quran and the Bhagavad Gita.
- Dr. Kalam dedicated his whole life to research, education, and public service; he got up early every day and followed a rigorous routine. Even in his 80s, he remained a modest and insatiably curious explorer of new possibilities.
He thought that integrity, diligence, and humility were more valuable than status and authority. He frequently said that although our reputation and character are closely related, our character is more valuable.
Some of his most powerful Quotes that still inspire millions:
- “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”
It serves as a reminder that the first step to success is imagination. - “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.”
He emphasized that greatness comes from consistent hard work. - “If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”
A powerful line about effort, sacrifice, and commitment. - “Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”
Reflecting his deep commitment to the future of India. - “All of us do not have equal talent. But all of us have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.”
A quote that gives hope and encouragement to all learners. - “I am not handsome, but I can give my hand to someone who needs help… Because beauty is required in heart, not in face.”
A beautiful reflection of his kindness and simplicity.
Combining strong ideas with personal principles, Dr. Kalam became not just a national hero but also a role model for today’s young people.
The Passion for Teaching Young People
Dr. Kalam continued to be passionate about inspiring young minds even after he retired.
- “Dreams are not what you see in sleep; they are those that do not let you sleep,” he once said.
- He authored several publications that influenced millions of learners, including Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, and India 2020.
- He believed that education was the key to redefining lives and that India’s youth would shape the country’s destiny.
- During his visits to over 500 institutions across India, Dr. Kalam met thousands of students and encouraged them to use their curiosity and creativity as tools for innovation. He also connected their leadership skills to values like integrity and humanism.
He had a unique bond with young people, a complementing tie between individuals who shared optimism and respect for one another.
A Startling Farewell That Astonished an Entire Nation
Dr. Kalam died doing what he loved most, just as he had lived.
- On July 27, 2015, he collapsed from a cardiac attack while lecturing at IIM Shillong, and he passed away at the age of 83.
- The story is made much more poignant by the fact that one of the faculty members heard Dr. Kalam’s last words, “Funny guy, you are doing okay?” just before he passed out.
- There was widespread grief throughout the nation. His remains were returned to Rameswaram, where tens of thousands of supporters and officials attended his state burial.
- Since then, every year the APJ Abdul Kalam death anniversary is observed with tributes by Indian people, scientists, students, and political leaders.
Even in death, he left a powerful message: never stop doing what you love.
FAQs
Q: What were some of Dr. Kalam’s most inspiring books?
Some of his most loved books are Wings of Fire (his autobiography), Ignited Minds, India 2020, and My Journey. These books are widely read for their motivation and life lessons.
Q: What was Dr. Kalam’s vision for India?
Dr. Kalam dreamed of a developed India by 2020. His vision included strong education, science, rural development, and a self-reliant economy. He believed in transforming India through youth power.
In Conclusion, Remembering Dr. Kalam means Upholding his Principles and Vision.
Living up to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s principles every day of our lives is the best way to honor his life, not just on APJ Abdul Kalam’s death anniversary. Dr. Kalam’s life has taught us to live modestly, with great curiosity, and to never give up on your aspirations, regardless of whether you are a student, teacher, engineer, or an aspirant dreamer. On this anniversary of APJ Abdul Kalam’s passing, let us remind ourselves to strive for the advancement of the country as well as our self-governance and benefit, just as Dr. Kalam did.
