Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: The Inspiring Journey of India’s Missile Man and People’s President

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: There are few personalities in Indian history whose humility, integrity, and dedication have inspired generations — Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was one of them. A visionary scientist, an inspiring teacher, and the People’s President — his life is a symbol of courage, knowledge, and the power of dreams. Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam’s journey from a small coastal town to the Rashtrapati Bhavan is a story that continues to inspire millions across the world.

Early Life – From Simplicity to Strong Determination

Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was born into a humble Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and imam of a local mosque, while his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker. The family was poor but deeply spiritual and value-driven.

To support his family and pay his school fees, young Kalam distributed newspapers before going to school every morning. Despite financial hardship, he was an exceptional student — curious, disciplined, and full of dreams. He once said, “Poverty never stopped me from dreaming. It only made my dreams stronger.”

Education and the Dream to Fly

After completing his schooling in Rameswaram, Kalam graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. Later, he joined the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) to study Aeronautical Engineering — a turning point in his life.

At MIT, his professors saw his determination and passion for flight. One of them told him, “To fly high, you must first believe that you can.” These words became a lifelong motto for Kalam.

The Scientist Who Gave India Its Wings

In 1958, Kalam applied to join the Indian Air Force but narrowly missed selection. Though disappointed, he decided to serve the nation in another way — as a scientist. He joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later moved to ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation), where he played a key role in developing India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3).

In 1980, SLV-3 successfully placed the Rohini satellite in orbit — making India a space-capable nation. This success was a defining moment not just for ISRO but for Dr. Kalam personally.

Later, he returned to DRDO and led the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), which developed missiles like Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Nag, and Trishul. This earned him the title — “Missile Man of India.”

Pokhran Nuclear Tests – India’s Bold Leap

In 1998, under his leadership, India conducted successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests, giving the country a new identity as a nuclear power. Dr. Kalam was one of the chief architects behind this mission.

Then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee said, “India is now a nuclear nation because of its scientists — and among them, Dr. Kalam stands tall.”

President of India – The People’s President

In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India. His tenure (2002–2007) was marked by humility, openness, and accessibility. He transformed the Rashtrapati Bhavan into a “People’s Palace.”

He loved interacting with students and often said, “I am not the President of India; I am the President of one billion dreams.”

He was affectionately called “The People’s President” because of his connection with ordinary citizens — especially the youth.

Books, Vision, and Legacy as a Teacher

Dr. Kalam was not just a scientist and leader — he was a prolific writer and philosopher. His books like “Wings of Fire,” “Ignited Minds,” “India 2020,” and “Mission India” continue to inspire millions.

One of his most famous quotes is: “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts, and thoughts result in action.”

Even after completing his term as President, he devoted the rest of his life to education and youth empowerment. He often visited schools and universities to inspire students to innovate, dream big, and serve the nation.

The Final Journey – A Life That Ended While Inspiring Others

On 27 July 2015, Dr. Kalam was delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong when he suddenly collapsed on stage due to cardiac arrest. He passed away doing what he loved most — teaching and inspiring young minds.

His death left the entire nation mourning. Every Indian — from schoolchildren to scientists — felt as though they had lost a mentor and a guide.

“If you want to shine like the sun, first burn like the sun.”
— Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Honors and Awards

• Bharat Ratna (1997) – India’s highest civilian award

• Padma Bhushan (1981)

• Padma Vibhushan (1990)

• 40+ honorary doctorates from international universities

• Known globally as “The Missile Man of India”

• Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU) named in his honor

The Legacy That Lives Forever

Dr. Kalam’s life reminds us that greatness is not about wealth or power, but about character, courage, and service. He believed that education is the most powerful weapon to change the world.

He often told students: “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”

Every year, his birthday — October 15 — is celebrated as World Students’ Day, a fitting tribute to the man who devoted his entire life to inspiring young minds.

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s story is the story of India itself — of struggle, faith, and relentless pursuit of progress. From a small boy selling newspapers in Rameswaram to becoming the President of the world’s largest democracy, his journey proves that no dream is too big and no dreamer too small.

His life continues to remind us that true success comes not from power or position, but from the ability to inspire others.

“Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”
— Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam