A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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A. P. J. Abdul Kalam – Life, Career, and Famous Quotes

Learn about A. P. J. Abdul Kalam — the “Missile Man of India,” scientist, President, author, and inspiration. Explore his journey from humble beginnings to national icon, his principles, and his memorable quotes.

Introduction

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen (A. P. J.) Abdul Kalam (born October 15, 1931 – died July 27, 2015) was a scientist, engineer, educator, and statesman who became India’s 11th President (2002–2007). Known affectionately as the “People’s President” and the “Missile Man of India,” Kalam’s life exemplifies how passion, humility, and perseverance can transform a nation’s trajectory. His writings, speeches, and personal example continue to inspire generations.

Early Life and Family

Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram (in present-day Tamil Nadu, India). His father, Jainulabdeen, ran a ferry boat and served as an imam in the local mosque; his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. He was the youngest among his siblings — three elder brothers and one sister.

Growing up in a modest household, Kalam contributed to the family’s income by distributing newspapers. His formative years were marked by a spirit of learning, devotion to study, and a strong moral grounding in religious and cultural respect.

Education & Early Aspirations

Kalam completed his schooling in Ramanathapuram, showing interest in mathematics and science. He did his undergraduate degree in Physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli (Trichy). Later, he pursued aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).

At MIT, he faced pressure and tight deadlines; one story recounts that his scholarship was at risk unless he completed a project within three days — he succeeded, impressing his instructors. He had aspired to join the Indian Air Force as a pilot, but narrowly missed the cutoff (he placed 9th when only 8 selection slots were available).

Scientific & Engineering Career

Entry into DRDO and ISRO

After graduation, Kalam joined the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), working initially on hovercraft and other projects. He later moved to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he became project director of India’s first satellite launch vehicle (SLV-III) which successfully placed the Rohini satellite in orbit in 1980.

Missile Development & “Missile Man” Title

Kalam played a central role in India’s integrated missile programs — including Project Devil, Project Valiant, and later under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) which led to missiles such as Agni and Prithvi. Because of these contributions, he earned the moniker “Missile Man of India.”

He also had involvement in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests (1998) — not as a direct weapon designer but in organizational, technical, and political coordination. Over his scientific career, Kalam held leadership roles, including Director General of DRDO and Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India.

Presidency & Public Service

Election and Tenure

Kalam was elected as President of India in 2002, running as an independent candidate with broad support from multiple parties. He served from 25 July 2002 to 25 July 2007. He was the first scientist and the first bachelor (i.e. unmarried) to become President of India.

During his presidency, he was known for his accessibility, especially to students, and his efforts to foster development, education, and national unity. One of his well-known initiatives was his vision document India 2020, envisaging India as a developed nation through technological and human resource development.

He also dealt with challenging decisions, such as handling mercy petitions and constitutional issues during his tenure.

Post-Presidency and Legacy Activities

After leaving office, Kalam resumed a life of teaching, lecturing, and writing. He held visiting professorships, delivered thousands of lectures (especially to youth), and remained active in promoting science, ethics, and public service. He also launched initiatives such as “What Can I Give?”, aimed at youth and social change.

Personal Life, Interests & Character

Kalam remained unmarried his entire life, dedicating himself to work and service. He was known for his simple lifestyle, high integrity, abstinence from alcohol, vegetarianism, and disciplined daily routine. He had interests beyond science — he composed Tamil poetry, played the veena (an Indian string instrument), and was deeply spiritual. Kalam emphasized interfaith respect and harmony; he was a devout Muslim but deeply engaged with other religious traditions and spiritual teachers.

Death

On 27 July 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong (in Meghalaya), Kalam collapsed and was rushed to hospital. He was declared dead of a sudden cardiac arrest. He was 83 at the time of his death. His last words reportedly to his aide were: “Funny guy! Are you doing well?” Kalam was accorded a state funeral, and his body was honored across the nation before being buried in his hometown of Rameswaram. A memorial, the Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam Memorial, was later built in Rameswaram in his honor.

Writings & Published Works

Kalam authored numerous books and works combining science, philosophy, inspiration, and national vision. Some notable titles include:

• Wings of Fire (autobiography)

• Indian 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium

• Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India

• Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji

• Indomitable Spirit

• Turning Points: A Journey through Challenges

• Many other motivational, technical, and philosophical works.

His style is often simple and accessible, intended for wide audiences, particularly youth, to internalize his messages of dreaming big, hard work, ethics, and technology for social good.

Famous Quotes of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Here are some of his celebrated quotes that reflect his mindset, values, and vision:

• “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action.”

• “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”

• “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.”

• “If you fail, never give up because FAIL means “First Attempt In Learning”.”

• “All of us do not have equal talent. But, all of us have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.”

• “Climbing to the top demands strength, whether it is to the top of Mount Everest or to the top of your career.”

• “Those who cannot work with their hearts achieve but a hollow, half-hearted success that breeds bitterness all around.”

• “Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”

These quotes capture his emphasis on dreams, perseverance, character, and service.

Legacy & Influence

• Kalam’s birthday, 15 October, is celebrated in India as World Students’ Day in recognition of his lifelong commitment to youth and education.

• Many institutions, roads, science centers, and awards have been named in his honor (e.g., Abdul Kalam Road, Abdul Kalam Island, Kalam Science City).

• His life and message continue to inspire students across India and globally to pursue science, innovation, and ethical leadership.

• In popular culture, his story has been depicted in films, books, and television series.

• Kalam is often held up as a model where scientific achievement and spiritual values coalesce — someone who saw technology not merely as ends, but as instruments for national uplift and human dignity.

Lessons from A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

1. Dream big, act small — he believed even small actions rooted in vision can make large change.

2. Persist through failure — he saw failure not as defeat but as a step in the learning process.

3. Serve others — his life turned toward public service, humility, and connecting with youth and society.

4. Balance science and spirit — he held that technological progress must go with ethical and spiritual growth.

5. Lifelong learning — he never stopped reading, asking questions, and evolving even in later life.

Conclusion

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was more than a scientist or a statesman — he was a symbol of aspiration, integrity, and national purpose. From his humble beginnings in Rameswaram to the heights of India's presidency, his life demonstrated that vision, perseverance, humility, and service can leave enduring change. His writings, speeches, and example continue to light paths for learners, innovators, and citizens worldwide.