APJ Abdul Kalam Biography, Books, Bharat Ratna, The People's President of India
APJ Abdul Kalam was a distinguished Indian scientist who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was well-regarded for his contributions to India’s space and missile programs. His vision for India includes scientific improvements and socioeconomic progress, receiving him the nickname “People’s President” due to his popularity with common people.
His life story exemplifies determination, intelligence, and a strong commitment to improving science and technology for public benefit.
Early Years and Education
Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, and comes from a modest home. Despite financial constraints, his love of learning and curiosity with science led him to pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering. After graduating from the Madras Institute of Technology, he worked for the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Contributions to India's Aerospace and Defence Programs
Dr. Kalam’s key role as a leader in India’s missile development projects, particularly the successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, propelled him to national fame. His leadership in projects such as the Agni and Prithvi missiles demonstrated India’s indigenous technological capabilities and strengthened its defense capability.
Vision for India's Space Program
Dr. Kalam advocated for the use of space technology for social benefit while serving as the Prime Minister’s Chief Scientific Advisor and then President of India. He projected satellite technology for rural development, disaster management, and telemedicine, highlighting its ability to improve the lives of ordinary Indians.
Presidential Tenure
People’s President, Dr. Kalam was elected President of India in 2002, a position he took on with humility and a strong sense of national duty. Throughout his term, he engaged with students and youngsters, encouraging them to dream big and contribute to India’s progress.
Inspirational Legacy
Dr. Abdul Kalam’s legacy goes much beyond his scientific achievements. He was a prolific writer and speaker, recognized for his inspirational lectures that appealed to people of all ages. His novels, “Wings of Fire” and “Ignited Minds,” continue to inspire millions to strive for greatness and creativity.
His autobiography, “Wings of Fire,” details his rise from a tiny village to India’s highest position, inspiring millions with his life lessons and principles. His talks, full of hope and patriotism, continue to resonate with people of all ages.
Dr. Abdul Kalam's Personal Life
Early Years and Family Background
Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to a modest Tamil Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam at the local mosque, while his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker who instilled in him strong values like kindness, honesty, and hard work from a young age.
Educational Background and Influences
Kalam had a strong interest in science and mathematics since a young age, and he would often spend hours researching the laws of flight and other scientific phenomena. His teachers recognized his outstanding talent and urged him to pursue higher study despite the family’s financial difficulties.
Marriage and Family
Abdul Kalam married Smt. Arul Mozhi Varman in 1958. She was from a neighboring village in Tamil Nadu, and their wedding was organized in the traditional South Indian style. Arul Mozhi Varman, noted for her supportive role, guided Kalam through his scientific achievements and civic service.
Abdul Kalam's Writings and Books
Developments in Fluid Mechanics and Space Technology by A P J Abdul Kalam and Roddam Narasimha. 1988.
India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium by A P J Abdul Kalam, Y. S. Rajan. 1998.
Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India by A P J Abdul Kalam, Viking, 2002.
The Luminous Sparks by A P J Abdul Kalam, by Punya Publishing Pvt Ltd. 2004.
Mission India by A P J Abdul Kalam, Paintings by Manav Gupta. Penguin Books, 2005.
Indomitable Spirit by A P J Abdul Kalam. Rajpal & Sons Publishing
Envisioning an Empowered Nation by A P J Abdul Kalam with A Sivathanu Pillai.
You Are Born To Blossom: Take My Journey Beyond by A P J Abdul Kalam and Arun Tiwari. Ocean Books, 2011.
Turning Points: A journey through challenges by A P J Abdul Kalam. 2012.
My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions by A P J Abdul Kalam 2014 by the Rupa Publication.
A Manifesto for Change: A Sequel to India 2020 by A P J Abdul Kalam and V Ponraj. 2014
Forge your Future: Candid, Forthright, Inspiring by A P J Abdul Kalam. 2014.
Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji by A P J Abdul Kalam with Arun Tiwari. 2015
Advantage India: From Challenge to Opportunity by A P J Abdul Kalam and Srijan Pal Singh. 2015.
Biographies
Eternal Quest: Life and Times of Dr Kalam by S Chandra 2002.
President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam by R K Pruthi. 2002.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The Visionary of India by K Bhushan, G Katyal. 2002.
A Little Dream (Documentary Film) by P. Dhanapal, Minveli Media Works Private Limited, 2008.
The Kalam Effect: My Years with the President by P M Nair. 2008.
My Days With Mahatma Abdul Kalam by Fr A K George. 2009.
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: A Life by Arun Tiwari. 2015.
The People's President: Dr A P J Abdul Kalam by S M Khan. 2016.
Honors, Awards and Accolade
Kalam got seven honorary doctorates from 40 universities. The Government of India awarded him the Padma Bhushan in 1981 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1990 for his work with ISRO and DRDO, as well as his role as a government scientific advisor.
Kalam received India’s highest civilian accolade, the Bharat Ratna, in 1997 for his contributions to scientific research and the modernization of India’s defense technology. In 2008, Kalam received the Hoover Medal. In 2013, he received the National Space Society’s Von Braun Award, which recognizes achievement in space-related project management and leadership. In 2012, Kalam was ranked number 2 in Outlook India’s poll of the Greatest Indian.
Death
On July 27, 2015, Kalam flew to Shillong to give a lecture on “Creating a Livable Planet Earth” at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. He had some discomfort while rising a flight of steps, but after a little pause, he was able to enter the auditorium. He collapsed at 6:35 p.m. IST, less than five minutes into his talk. He was brought to the closest Bethany Hospital in severe condition, but he had no pulse or other signs of life. Despite being admitted to the intensive care unit, Kalam died of a sudden heart arrest at 7:45 p.m.
Following his death, Kalam’s body was carried from Shillong to Guwahati by an Indian Air Force chopper, and then flown to New Delhi on the morning of July 28 by an air force C-130J Hercules.
The flight landed at Palam Air Base that afternoon and was received by President Pranab Mukherjee, then-Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and the three service chiefs of the Indian Armed Forces, who laid bouquets on Kalam’s body. His body was then transported to his Delhi residence at 10 Rajaji Marg on a gun carriage covered in the Indian flag, where the public and numerous dignitaries, including former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Vice President Rahul Gandhi, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, paid their respects.
On the morning of 29 July, Kalam’s body, wrapped in the Indian flag, was taken to Palam Air Base and flown to Madurai in an air force C-130J aircraft, arriving at Madurai Airport that afternoon. His body was received at the airport by the three service chiefs and national and state dignitaries, including cabinet ministers Manohar Parrikar, Venkaiah Naidu, Pon Radhakrishnan and the governors of Tamil Nadu and Meghalaya, K Rosaiah and V. Shanmuganathan.
After a brief ceremony, Kalam’s body was flown by air force helicopter to the town of Mandapam, from where it was taken in an army truck to his hometown of Rameswaram. Upon arriving at Rameswaram, his body was displayed in an open area in front of the local bus station to allow the public to pay their final respects until 8 p.m. that evening.
On July 30, 2015, the former president was put to rest at Rameswaram’s Pei Karumbu Ground with full state honors. The death rites were attended by nearly 350,000 people, including the Prime Minister, the Governor of Tamil Nadu, and the chief ministers of Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh.
Conclusion
Dr. Abdul Kalam’s life and achievements demonstrate the power of determination, intellect, and a firm ethical framework. His contributions to India’s defense and space projects, combined with his role as a unifying figure and mentor to young people, have made him a beloved figure in Indian history. As we remember him, let us respect his principles and work to realize his vision of a developed and inclusive India.
In essence, Dr. Abdul Kalam is a timeless inspiration, not only for Indians but for everyone all throughout the world who believes in the transforming potential of science, education, and human values.
FAQs
1. What is Dr. Abdul Kalam most known/famous for?
Dr. Abdul Kalam is best known for his contributions to India’s space and missile programs, as well as his tenure as the country’s eleventh president. He is also known for his inspirational publications and lectures.
2. Which is Dr. Abdul Kalam's most popular book?
Dr. Abdul Kalam’s autobiography, “Wings of Fire,” is one of his most popular books, known for its motivational content and insights into his life and career.
3. How did Dr. Kalam contribute to India's space program?
Dr. Kalam was instrumental in creating India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III) and in moving the country’s missile development programs forward.
4. What are Dr. Abdul Kalam's major awards?
Dr. Kalam received the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, and Padma Bhushan, among countless other national and international awards.
6. How did Dr. Abdul Kalam inspire the youth?
Dr. Kalam’s publications, talks, and educational efforts inspired young people to dream big, work hard, and contribute to the nation’s growth. His words of hope and empowerment continue to resonate with young people.
7. Full name of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Full Name:- (Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam)
Dr. Abdul Kalam, the most loved Indian after Mahatma Gandhi Ji, believed we had yet to find a better alternative to Mahatma Gandhi Ji’s ideology and philosophies for achieving a goal for the welfare of the country.
8. APJ Abdul Kalam Biography
Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, also known as APJ Abdul Kalam, was the 11th President of India and one of India’s most renowned scientists. He was revered as the “Missile Man of India” for his contributions to space and defense technologies, and his vision, modesty, and patriotism inspired millions.