Dr A P J Abdul Kalam
Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, popularly known as Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, was more than just a scientist or a president. He was a visionary, a humanist, and a teacher to the nation, whose life story continues to inspire generations across boundaries of age, caste, and profession.
Born on October 15, 1931, in the temple town of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam’s journey from the modest home of a boat owner to the highest constitutional post in India is a testament to perseverance, humility, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Kalam was born into a Muslim Tamil family during British India. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a housewife. Despite economic hardships, Kalam’s parents prioritized education.
From an early age, Kalam displayed a deep curiosity about the world around him. He sold newspapers to supplement his family's income but never compromised on his studies. He graduated in physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, and later pursued aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT). His ambition to become a fighter pilot did not materialize, he missed a spot in the Indian Air Force by a narrow margin, but fate had different, and perhaps bigger, plans for him.
Scientific Career and the Rise of the Missile Man
Dr. Kalam began his scientific career at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and soon moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Under the guidance of renowned scientist Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, Kalam became instrumental in the development of India’s first indigenous satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in 1980.
His work in missile development during the 1980s and 1990s earned him the moniker “Missile Man of India”. He spearheaded projects like Agni, Prithvi, Akash, and Nag, which formed the backbone of India’s strategic defense arsenal.
He also played a key role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, solidifying India’s status as a nuclear power. Despite his involvement in defense, Dr. Kalam remained a man of peace and progress, often reiterating that science should be used for development, not destruction.
President of India: 2002-2007
Dr. Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India in 2002 with overwhelming support from all major political parties, despite never having been a politician. Known affectionately as the “People’s President”, he broke the traditional mold of the office.
During his presidency, Dr. Kalam opened the gates of Rashtrapati Bhavan to children, students, and citizens from all walks of life. He traveled widely across India, engaging with youth and inspiring them to dream big, think creatively, and believe in themselves.
He refused to sign the Office of Profit Bill in 2006, asserting the independence and dignity of the President’s office. He remained a conscientious constitutional head, never overstepping his boundaries but always using his moral authority for the nation’s good.
Post-Presidency: Teacher and Visionary
Even after his term ended, Dr. Kalam never retired. He returned to what he loved most: teaching and interacting with students. He taught at various prestigious institutions, including IISc Bangalore, IIMs, and Anna University.
His interaction style was unique, he encouraged students to question, think deeply, and find their own purpose. His books, especially "Wings of Fire", "Ignited Minds", "India 2020", and "My Journey", became manifestos for young Indians seeking to build a better future.
He often said:
Death and Legacy
Dr. Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. True to his spirit, he died doing what he loved: teaching and inspiring. His death sent shockwaves through the country, with millions mourning the loss of a true hero.
His legacy, however, lives on in countless ways:
- The DRDO Missile Complex in Hyderabad was renamed the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Missile Complex.
- His birthday, October 15, is celebrated as World Students' Day by the UN in his honor.
- Numerous scholarships, institutions, awards, and memorials have been named after him.
- His life continues to be part of school syllabi and moral education programs across India.
Philosophy and Values
Dr. Kalam’s philosophy was rooted in simplicity, spiritualism, and scientific inquiry. A devout Muslim, he often quoted Bhagavad Gita, Quran, and Bible, advocating interfaith harmony. His deep respect for all religions and cultures earned him admiration from every corner of Indian society.
He strongly believed that education, innovation, and moral leadership were the keys to national progress. He envisioned a developed India by 2020, where rural and urban India would be equally empowered.
His 2020 vision included:
- Quality education for all
- Technological innovation
- Sustainable energy and agriculture
- Strong defense and space capabilities
- Social equity and spiritual growth
While not all aspects of his vision were realized by 2020, his ideas continue to shape India’s developmental goals.
Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope
Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was not just an individual; he was a movement. His life was a message that dreams, when combined with dedication and hard work, can overcome any barrier.
In an age of cynicism and materialism, Kalam stood as a symbol of integrity, humility, and idealism. Whether through his scientific achievements, presidential leadership, or his role as a teacher, he left behind a legacy that transcends politics, religion, and generations.
His message remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime:
