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“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough”.
These inspiring words are reminiscent of the great man Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam. Considered to be one of the greatest minds of all time and fondly remembered as the ‘People’s President,’ he embodied strength, skill, and kindness. APJ Abdul Kalam contributed significantly to the field of science as an aerospace engineer and served the people of India as the President. He was also well known for his philanthropy and fondness towards children and the youth. APJ Abdul Kalam will forever remain among one of the genuinely revolutionary free thinkers who set India on a path of modernization and glory. APJ Abdul Kalam was born in Rameswaram of Madras Presidency on 15th October 1931.
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APJ Abdul Kalam – Birth and Beginnings
Born on 15th October 1931 in the coastal town of Rameshwaram, Tamilnadu, APJ Abdul Kalam had a very normal childhood. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boatman and his mother, Ashiamma, looked after her five sons and one daughter. Although money was a scarce commodity in the household, APJ Abdul Kalam’s parents ensured that their children received a proper education. Kalam’s father had a lasting impact on his young mind and taught him the value of hard work and discipline. His mother also instilled values like honesty and dedication in all her children. Abdul Kalam started supporting his family at a very young age. He was only ten when he began working as a paperboy for his elder cousin and paying his tuition fees. These experiences shaped APJ Abdul Kalam to be the great man that he was.
APJ Abdul Kalam did not let his humble beginnings come his way. In one of his books, he says that he did not have the brightest mind, but he made up for it with his hard work and dedication. Kalam’s teachers ignited his passion for knowledge, and after finishing school, he got admitted to the prestigious Madras Institute of Technology. He graduated to become an aerospace engineer and joined the DRDO. During his term at the DRDO, he designed several helicopters and fighting jets for the army. His work was so impressive that he got promoted to work in ISRO, under his idol and mentor, Vikram Sarabhai.
APJ Abdul Kalam – Term at ISRO
At ISRO, APJ Abdul Kalam worked relentlessly towards designing ballistic missile technology and launch vehicle systems. APJ Abdul Kalam is credited for developing the mighty ‘Agni’ and ‘Prithvi’ missiles that strengthened India’s military powers. It was also the leadership and guidance of Abdul Kalam that made the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear testing a success. Had it not been for the likes of him, India would never be at par in terms of nuclear weapons and ammunitions with the power blocs. Because of these achievements, APJ Abdul Kalam is considered one of the most outstanding scientists of this century.
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APJ Abdul Kalam – People’s President
APJ Abdul Kalam was also elected as the President of India from the year 2002 to 2007. He was so popular and liked by the people in the Parliament that he was unanimously elected for the position, with both the opposition and ruling party in his favour. During his tenure as the President, he brought about several reforms and policies that helped bring down corruption and create new opportunities for India’s citizens. He also promoted the idea of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among the different communities of the nation. He was so popular among the masses that he was fondly called ‘the people’s President.
APJ Abdul Kalam – Interaction with Indian Youth
APJ Abdul Kalam had a soft corner for the younger generation. He always tried to interact with the youth and motivated them to think out of the box. He firmly believed that it was the younger generation that would lead India to its glorious destiny. APJ Abdul Kalam always emphasized the importance of practical skills over bookish knowledge, and that is why he said the words, “The brightest brains of the country are found in the back seats of the classrooms.”
APJ Abdul Kalam – Mr.Kalam’s Traits
APJ Abdul Kalam led a life of simplicity. In fact, he never owned a television or radio. His belongings consisted of his books, a laptop, three pairs of clothes, and a ‘veena’ that he was immensely fond of. His life was an example of ‘simple living and high thinking.’ After retiring from the post of President, he continued his work of philanthropy and education. He also published a number of autobiographical accounts that won laurels from far and wide. His books like Wings of Fire, Ignited Minds, India 2020 have been translated into more than 13 languages. His work and contribution to science was so acclaimed that he got honorary degrees from 48 universities.
Conclusion :
APJ Abdul Kalam was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1981 and Padma Vibhushan in 1990. In 1997, he was also decorated with the highest civilian award of the nation, the Bharat Ratna. His life was cut short on 27th July 2015, when APJ Abdul Kalam died of a heart attack while addressing a bunch of students in IIM, Shillong. Even his last breaths were devoted to serving the people and igniting the young minds. Although India lost a great son, APJ Abdul Kalam’s service and vision continue to motivate people to strive forward and work for their families and country.
FAQs On APJ Abdul Kalam
How many awards has APJ Abdul Kalam won?
APJ Abdul Kalam received several awards, including the Bharat Ratna and Padma Bhushan.
What are the major achievements of APJ Abdul Kalam?
He is known for his work in India's missile program and his role as President of India.
What are the 8 inventions of APJ Abdul Kalam?
He worked on various missile technologies like Agni, Prithvi, and the development of satellites.
What was APJ Abdul Kalam famous for?
He was famous for his contributions to India's space and missile programs and his role as a motivational leader.
What is the cause of death of APJ Abdul Kalam?
APJ Abdul Kalam passed away due to a cardiac arrest while giving a lecture.
When was Abdul Kalam born and died?
He was born on October 15, 1931, and died on July 27, 2015.
In which Indian state was Dr. Kalam born?
Dr. Kalam was born in Tamil Nadu.
When did Kalam retire?
He retired from his position as President in July 2007.
Did A.P.J. Abdul Kalam get married?
No, APJ Abdul Kalam never married.
Did Abdul Kalam have kids?
No, Abdul Kalam did not have any children.
What did Abdul Kalam love?
He loved teaching, reading, and writing, and had a passion for inspiring youth.
What is the mother name of Abdul Kalam?
His mother’s name was Ashiamma.
Does Abdul Kalam have a sister?
Yes, he had a sister named Kasthuri.
What was the school life of Kalam?
Kalam’s school life was humble; he was known for his dedication and love for learning.
Who is Abdul Kalam's cousin?
His cousin was Siva Kalam, who was also influential in his early life.
Why do we celebrate students' day?
Students' Day is celebrated to honor and recognize the contributions of students and promote their importance in society.
