The journey of India’s ‘missile man’ and the 11th President Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, which came to an end on a Monday at the age of 84, is not a classic rags to riches story, but a rare odyssey of penury to perfection and a saga of a miraculous endeavor from tatters to triumph!!
An institution builder, a workaholic bachelor, who, in his life, led through an example and motivated young scientists and ignited the minds of young students across the country, walked out of the mortal confines, doing what he loved the most – he collapsed while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management in Shillong.
His vision 2020 to transform India into a developed nation, besides his pivotal role, in the development of the Agni missile and educational leadership made him one of those rare individuals, who through his life, stayed endeared to and revered by, a wide section, if not the whole, of the Indian populace.
From humble beginnings, in the tranquil shore town of Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, to the Rashtrapathi Bhavan, Kalam’s life is a trajectory of achievements, built on dreams, grit and determination. Political leaders across parties besides all the members of the scientist fraternity, continue to cherish his rich contributions to the nation.
His universal appeal drew him to political achievements, as the NDA Government led by Atal Behari Vajpayee, made him the Presidential candidate in 2002. He won, rose above politics and set a precedent through his altruistic and idealistic leadership. His term at the Rashtrapathi Bhavan brought memories of the popularity of Pandit Nehru with children and the public.
In India, where icons are invariably from the silver screen or the world of cricket, Kalam, with his own unconventional simplicity, superlative thought leadership, selfless servitude and amazing achievements, became one of the most popular persona and an icon to reckon with.
After his term as the President, he returned to his passion — teaching, writing and public service. He received several prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.
From successfully launching satellites through Satellite Launch Vehicles, to the Pokhran-2 nuclear tests in 1998, Kalam was wedded to self-reliance in technology. A versatile person, his passion was not limited to science alone. He was a poet, played the veena and was conversant with both the Quran as well as the Bhagavad Gita.
He books he authored, shall continue to stay popular for years to come and shall serve to help and motivate many a young Indian, in their journey towards self actualization. His work, ‘Wings of Fire’ has been translated into Chinese as well.
Tribute to the greatest man…
Born in a simple family…
Selfless, loving, caring..
A great professor…
A great scientist..
A true Indian..
A man of dreams..
He who lived the dream..
The man who made us dream…
A man of humbleness.
A man of simplicity..
A hero of revolutionary reputation..
A winner of youth hearts..
A writer of great quotes…
A great leader….
A great orator…
The world will miss you..
India will miss you..
We, will miss you…
Though your mortal body no longer lives amongst us..
You, your thoughts and your quotes will remain in our hearts until the world ends…
… for such endless beings as you, the souls, eternally burn bright and there is never a Good Bye!! So, dearest and most revered, Dr.A.P.J Abdul Kalam.. Salute !!
