A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
Born into a modest family in the temple town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam rose from humble beginnings to become a national icon, known as the "Missile Man of India." A distinguished aerospace engineer, a compassionate leader, and a beloved teacher, Kalam’s life journey is a story of grit, dedication, and undying service to the nation. His scientific work laid the foundation for India's missile technology, while his presidency infused the office with simplicity and accessibility.
Early Life and Education
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, a small town on the southeastern coast of India. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque, while his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. The family was not wealthy, but the values of hard work, honesty, and discipline were deeply instilled in young Kalam.
Despite financial hardships, Kalam was a bright student with a natural curiosity about science and engineering. He completed his schooling in Rameswaram and later moved to Tiruchirappalli to attend St. Joseph's College. Driven by a passion for flight and space, he pursued aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT). It was during his time at MIT that Kalam decided to dedicate his life to serving the nation through science.
Scientific Career and Contributions
After completing his studies, Kalam joined the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1958, where he began working on a hovercraft project. However, his significant breakthroughs came after he moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969. At ISRO, he was the project director of India’s first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in 1980.
Kalam’s reputation as a pioneer in missile technology grew when he returned to DRDO in the 1980s. He spearheaded the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), which led to the development of several critical missile systems including Agni and Prithvi. These accomplishments earned him the nickname "Missile Man of India."
His work went beyond just engineering marvels. Kalam was instrumental in advancing India’s strategic defense capabilities, which played a crucial role in the nation's standing on the global stage. He also served as the Chief Scientific Adviser to the Prime Minister from 1992 to 1999, during which time India conducted its second nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998.
The People's President
In 2002, Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India with overwhelming support across political parties. His term from 2002 to 2007 was marked by his non-partisan approach, his accessibility to citizens, and his deep interest in the youth of the country. Despite being a scientist by training, he embraced his ceremonial role with humility and used it as a platform to inspire millions.
He made it a point to travel widely across India, especially to rural and remote areas, connecting directly with students and educators. Kalam’s presidency broke conventional norms, making Rashtrapati Bhavan a space open to dialogue and interaction. He often emphasized the importance of education, technological self-reliance, and moral values in his addresses.
Legacy as an Educator and Author
Even after his presidency, Kalam remained deeply involved in education and youth empowerment. He took up teaching positions at various institutions, including the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Shillong, Ahmedabad, and Indore. For Kalam, sharing knowledge was not just a responsibility but a mission.
He authored numerous books, many of which became bestsellers. His most notable works include *Wings of Fire*, his autobiography, and *Ignited Minds*, which calls upon young Indians to dream big and work towards a developed nation. His writings are known for their inspirational tone and emphasis on optimism and perseverance.
Personal Life and Character
A man of simple habits, Kalam lived a life of austerity and discipline. He was a vegetarian, practiced spirituality, and often spent time reading the Quran and the Bhagavad Gita. He never married and remained devoted to his work and to the service of India.
What set Kalam apart was not just his intellectual brilliance but also his humility and compassion. He consistently ranked among the most admired public figures in India, not because of political power, but because of his unwavering commitment to the common good.
Final Moments and National Mourning
On 27 July 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, Kalam collapsed due to cardiac arrest. He was 83 years old. His sudden death sent shockwaves across the nation. Leaders, students, scientists, and ordinary citizens paid tribute to a man who had touched countless lives.
He was laid to rest in his hometown of Rameswaram with full state honors, and the government declared seven days of national mourning. His burial site was later developed into the Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Memorial, attracting visitors from across the country.
Enduring Legacy
Today, Kalam’s legacy continues to inspire generations. Numerous educational institutions, scholarships, and awards have been named after him. His birthday, 15 October, is celebrated as World Students' Day in recognition of his love for education and students.
More than a scientist or a former head of state, Abdul Kalam remains a symbol of hope, possibility, and national pride. His story is proof that with vision, integrity, and relentless effort, greatness is achievable regardless of one’s origins.