Celebrating the birth anniversary of the visionary who ignited young minds – Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the Missile Man of India

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A dream is not something that you see while sleeping, it is something that doesn’t let you sleep – A.P.J Abdul Kalam

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out” – Robert Collier

Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

• Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was an Indian aerospace scientist and statesman. Born and raised in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
• Kalam studied physics and aerospace engineering.
• He served as the president of India from 2002 to 2007.
• He was India’s first bachelor president.
• He remained a vegetarian throughout his life. 
• He was a skilled veena player: and had a deep interest in Carnatic music. 
• He sold newspapers as a child: to contribute to his family’s income. 
• He had a deep connection with multiple faiths, as indicated by his ability to recite from the Quran and the Bhagavad Gita. 
• He received 48 doctorate degrees, some are :
  • Doctor of Engineering: from Nanyang Technological University in 2008. 2.
  • Doctor of Science: from the University of Wolverhampton in 2007.
  • Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa): from Indian universities such as the Birla Institute of Technology. University of Allahabad.
  • Doctor of Engineering: from the University of Waterloo in 2010.
• The title “Dr.” was awarded because he received these honorary doctorates, which were bestowed upon him by various institutions, including universities and professional bodies.
• These degrees recognized his significant achievements and roles as a scientist, educationist, and statesman, particularly his work in India’s missile technology and nuclear programs.
• He was a gifted writer, authoring several books, including his autobiography, Wings of Fire, which was translated into 13 languages. 
• His birthplace was in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, and his national memorial is located there, built by DRDO.
• He was nominated for the MTV Youth Icon of the Year: award twice, in 2003 and 2006. 
• His first achievement in his career was designing a small helicopter for the Indian Army.

“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough” – A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

“Be Active! Take on responsibility! Work for the things you believe in. If you do not, you are surrendering your fate to others.”

Few Awards among many

• Padma Bhushan in 1981.
• Padma Vibhushan in 1990. For his work with ISRO and DRDO and his role as a scientific advisor to the Government.
• Bharat Ratna in 1997 – India’s highest civilian honor.
• In 1998, Veer Savarkar Award from government of India.
• In 2000, Ramanujan Award from Alwars Research Center, Chennai.
• In 2007, King Charles II Medal from Royal Society, UK.
• In 2008 Kalam was the recipient of Hoover Medal.
• In 2013, he was the recipient of the Von Braun Award from the National Space Society. To recognize excellence in the management and leadership of a space-related project.

Books written By A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

To succeed in your mission, you must have single-minded devotion to your goal. – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Wings of Fire

• This is Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s autobiography, co-written with Arun Tiwari.
• It beautifully narrates his journey from a modest childhood in Rameswaram to becoming India’s most respected scientist and eventually the President.
• The book highlights his struggles, perseverance, and his unshakable belief in hard work and faith.
• It’s deeply inspiring and ideal for anyone chasing their dreams.

If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun. – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium

• Co-authored with Y.S. Rajan, this book outlines Kalam’s ambitious vision for transforming India into a developed nation.
• It focuses on progress through science, technology, agriculture, and education.
• The work is both practical and motivational, filled with hope for India’s bright future.

DREAM, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts. Thoughts results into action – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Ignited Minds: Unleashing the Power Within India

In this book, Dr. Kalam addresses the youth of the nation, urging them to believe in their potential and take responsibility for India’s development.

He emphasizes the power of dreams, innovation, and self-belief. It’s one of his most motivational works, especially for students and young professionals.

If you FAIL, never give up. because FAIL means, FIRST ATTEMPT IN LEARNING – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Target 3 Billion

Written with Srijan Pal Singh, this book discusses rural development and how empowering India’s villages can lead to national growth.

It offers practical models and success stories that inspire readers to think beyond urban boundaries and work for inclusive progress.

Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Indomitable Spirit

This collection of Dr. Kalam’s speeches and reflections captures his values, ethics, and deep faith in human potential.

It conveys his vision of a world driven by compassion, knowledge, and courage.

My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions
This is a simple, heartfelt account of Dr. Kalam’s life lessons.

Through short stories and experiences, he teaches readers how small efforts can lead to great achievements.

It’s especially relatable for young readers.

The Luminous Sparks
A collection of poems and thoughts written by Dr. Kalam, this book reflects his creative and emotional side.

It combines poetry, philosophy, and inspiration, revealing the sensitive soul behind the scientist.

You Are Born to Blossom
In this book, Dr. Kalam encourages readers to explore their inner potential.

He focuses on how education, creativity, and self-confidence can shape a better individual and a stronger nation.

Children Ask Kalam
This book is a delightful compilation of Dr. Kalam’s interactions with children.

Through their innocent yet profound questions, he shares lessons about life, learning, and the importance of curiosity.

“We are all born with a divine fire in us. Our efforts should be to give wings to this fire and fill the world with the glow of its goodness.” – A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Thank You 🙂

Have a Great time ahead 🙂🙂