Remembering Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam: A Legacy of Inspiration and Innovation

-- San Murugesan , 15 Oct 2023

On October 15, we commemorate the birth anniversary of one of India's most illustrious figures, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. His impact on India as a scientist, a visionary, and a statesman continues reverberating through the generations. As we observe this auspicious day, let us pay our respects to his extraordinary legacy. In his memory, Oct 15th is celebrated as Students’ Day in India.

A HUMBLE BEGINNING, AN EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY

Born on October 15, 1931, in the charming town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam's life story is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of knowledge. Despite facing numerous challenges while growing up, his unwavering passion for learning led him to aerospace engineering.

PIONEERING SPACE EXPLORATION AND DEFENSE

Dr. Kalam's professional journey led him to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), where he played a pivotal role in developing India's inaugural satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III. His contribution to the triumphant launch of the Rohini satellite marked a significant milestone in India's space odyssey, laying the groundwork for the nation's burgeoning space ambitions.

While his space endeavours were remarkable, Dr. Kalam's most enduring legacy is his contributions to India's defense capabilities. Spearheading the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), he propelled India's ballistic missile technology to new heights. Under his leadership, India achieved remarkable breakthroughs in missile technology, including successfully testing the Agni and Prithvi missiles.

THE "PEOPLE'S PRESIDENT" AND ADVOCATE FOR EDUCATION

In 2002, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was elected as the 11th President of India. A deep commitment to education, youth, and technology characterized his presidency. He remained an unwavering source of inspiration for young minds nationwide, encouraging them to dream big and work towards a prosperous India. During his five-year tenure, he earned the charming nickname of the "People's President."

A VISION FOR THE YOUTH AND THE POWER OF EDUCATION

Dr. Kalam genuinely believed in the transformative power of education and the immense potential of India's youth. His tireless interactions with students served as an enduring source of motivation, inspiring them to pursue careers in science and technology. His books, particularly Ignited Minds, ?Indomitable Spirits, and Wings of Fire: An Autobiography, continue to captivate the hearts of young readers and inspire countless individuals to dream and chase their dreams (refer to a brief summary of these books at the end).

LEARNING FROM KALAM'S LIFE

On this day, as we honour Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, let us draw inspiration from his remarkable journey. His life is a testament to the fact that our past does not dictate our future. We can motivate ourselves by imbibing valuable lessons from his extraordinary life.

KALAM'S QUOTES: WISDOM FOR A LIFETIME

Dr. Kalam's wise words continue to resonate with people from all walks of life. Some of his inspirational quotes are worth pondering:

• Don't rest. “Don't take rest after your first victory because if you fail in the second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck."
• Dream. “You have to dream before your dreams can come true."
• Be determined to succeed. “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident."
• Change your habits to change your future. “You cannot change your future, but you can change your habits, and surely your habits will change your future."
• Never give up. "If you fail, never give up because F.A.I.L. means 'First Attempt In Learning."

As we reflect on Dr. Kalam's extraordinary life and celebrate his enduring legacy, let us also embrace the wisdom he left behind. His words and deeds illuminate our path, showing us that dreams can be achieved no matter where we start.

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Summary of? Dr Kalam’s Inspiring Books

Ignited Minds

In this book , Dr Kalam delineates obstacles that are preventing India from rising up to the challenge of development. India has unmatched talent and ambition with an inherent tendency to work hard, so what keeps India from overtaking the world? Why does India settle for the ordinary when the extraordinary is well within reach?

Dr. Kalam shares his dream of an unrivaled nation; he discusses how he has, from his experience, met such skilled people whose visions can transform the country. One must search for one's solutions and find role models in fellow citizens instead of looking towards other nations. India must not strive to be the next America or Japan but must be the strong nation that she can become. All the trapped energies and initiatives need to be freed instead of suppressing them.

In the book, we are introduced to numerous role models hiding amongst us. Words of wisdom from saints and seers the author encountered throughout his life have been quoted. The book proceeds to address the issues at hand and mentions some reforms that have to be incorporated into politics and policies. The policy-making procedure of the nation requires major reforms. The youth has to be given a stage and the reins of the nation need to be passed on. The book motivates young minds and forces the positive auras together to build the face of a new nation.

?Indomitable Spirit

"What would you like to be remembered for? You have to evolve yourself and shape your ?ife. You should write it on a page. That page may be a very important page in the book of human history. And you will be remembered for creating that one page in the history of the nation - whether that page is the page of invention, the page of innovation, or the page of discovery or the page of fighting injustice." Simple words, spoken directly from the heart, reveal Dr Kalam's deep concern for vital issues. Reflecting upon many themes of abiding human, national, and global concerns, Dr. Kalam's inspiring, almost magical words engage and captivate the reader's mind and heart. “Indomitable Spirit” brings together President Kalam's values, thoughts, and ideals as reflected in his speeches and addresses. Interspersed with fascinating anecdotes and observations, this book represents the quintessential APJ Abdul Kalam - the man, the scientist, the teacher, and the President.

?WINGS OF FIRE: An Autobiography

In this book , Dr Kalam shares his personal experiences and the minutest details of his life. It narrates his life, right from the late president’s rise from humble beginnings to his vision for the country in the year 2020. It has been divided into four parts equally. The first part narrates his early life which includes his parents, teachers, and other influential role models. The second part deals with Kalam’s further education, work experience, and involvement with military projects. The third and fourth parts are about his ISRO career and the last phase of his life, where he was bestowed with several awards and honours.