Today we remember the birth anniversary of a man who inspires millions. Most people know him as the “scientist” of India, but in reality he was a former President and a true visionary who believed in dreams, education, and humility.
A small beginning at Rameswaram
Dr. Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 in a small poor family in the peaceful town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. His family could be modestly poor only due to his father’s boat business. Young Kalam added extra income to this pocket by selling newspapers. Despite living in this poor family, his dreams were very big. The young Kalam was naturally curious about the world around him and, in particular, fascinated with science and technology.
Even though his family was experiencing financial crisis, extreme opposition from his family would never deter his quest to continue with education. His efforts had payback and he graduated in the field of aerospace engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology. This was the early movement of an outstanding career which would be for some years and end up making him gain national respect as one of the greatest scientists in India.
The Missile Man of India
So enthusiastic was Dr. Kalam towards science and technology that he soon became an important person in the Defense Research and Development Organization as well as in the Indian Space Research Organization. He also made an equally important contribution to the Indian missile development programs. There, he succeeded in developing the Agni and Prithvi missiles – a title which earned him the nickname “India’s Big Scientist”.
However, it was not just a defense technology. Dr. Kalam believed science would make the country strong and the lives of citizens better. One of the big moments in Indian history was the leadership of the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, with which the country established itself as an acknowledged nuclear state. While ensuring Indian defenses, Kalam remained an ardent advocate of using the technology for peaceful purposes in order to establish a more beautiful world for humans.
The President of the People
Dr. Kalam was elected as India’s 11th president in 2002 with much pride. Characteristic humility did well for him all through his life, and the generosity he displays towards ordinary people is greatly significant for the youth because he does believe that they alone constitute the future of India. In his speeches he has talked about dreaming big, working hard and never giving up.
However, until the end, Kalam remained a down-to-earth, approachable president, and he earned himself the nickname “the People’s President.” His vision for an advanced India by 2020 rested on science, technology, and innovation. Since he left the post in 2007, he still could not shake off his contact with youths for quite some time, and many remained curious and driven towards success.
Dr. Kalam’s life is still a harmonious blend of simplicity, wisdom, and compassion even after leaving his term as president. His works, such as Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds, exhibit an unflinching confidence in the minds of young people and motivate millions around the world.
Dr. Kalam died on 27 July 2015 at the Indian Institute of Management in Shillong while attending to his favorite pastime of taking questions from students. At the time of his passing, the whole nation paid great homage to him; however, his spirit lives on vibrantly and continues to motivate aspirations as well as stimulate intellects.
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