Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Biography: The Missile Man of India

Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, popularly known as Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, was one of India’s most admired scientists and the 11th President of India (2002–2007). Known as the “Missile Man of India” for his contribution to India’s missile and nuclear programs, Dr. Kalam was a symbol of knowledge, simplicity, and inspiration for millions. 

Early Life and Education

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to a humble Tamil Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner, and his mother, Ashiamma, was a homemaker.

Despite financial struggles, young Kalam was a bright and hardworking student. He completed his schooling at Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram and went on to study Physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. Later, he pursued Aerospace Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT).

Scientific Career and Achievements

Dr. Kalam began his career at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later joined the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he played a crucial role in India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III) project that deployed the Rohini satellite in 1980.

He was instrumental in the development of India’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs, earning him the title “Missile Man of India.” His work on the Agni and Prithvi missiles made India self-reliant in defense technology.

Dr. Kalam also contributed to the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which established India as a nuclear power.

Presidency (2002–2007)

In 2002, Dr. Kalam became the 11th President of India, known as the “People’s President.” He won the hearts of millions through his humility, wisdom, and dedication to youth and education. During his tenure, he encouraged innovation and scientific thinking among students.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Wings of Fire

Dr. Kalam co-authored his autobiography, Wings of Fire: An Autobiography of APJ Abdul Kalam, with Arun Tiwari. Published in 1999, this book narrates his journey from a small-town boy in Rameswaram to becoming India’s leading aerospace scientist and eventually the President of India.

Wings of Fire is one of the most popular motivational books in India. It highlights Dr. Kalam’s life lessons, struggles, faith, and unwavering dedication to his dreams. The book continues to inspire millions of students, scientists, and dreamers across the world.

Unknown Facts About Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

• His Birth Anniversary Is Celebrated as World Students’ Day In recognition of his love for education and youth, the United Nations declared October 15 (his birthday) as World Students’ Day.
• He Loved Students the Most Dr. Kalam’s greatest passion was interacting with young minds. He often said:

                   “If you want to shine like the sun, first burn like the sun.”      He believed that India’s future lies in the hands of its youth.

• Dr. Kalam was a trained Veena player and often played classical music to relax and reflect after long working hours.
• Dr. Kalam received honorary doctorates from more than 40 universities across the globe, recognizing his contribution to science, technology, and education.
• Dr. Kalam came from a humble background. To support his family financially during childhood, he used to sell newspapers after school in his hometown, Rameswaram.
• Dr. Kalam always dreamed of becoming an Indian Air Force pilot, but he narrowly missed his chance — ranking 9th when only 8 positions were available. He later said that this setback redirected him toward a greater purpose in life.
• Dr. Kalam believed that television distracted people from their goals. Instead, he spent his leisure time reading books, writing, and playing the Veena, a classical Indian instrument he loved.
• Despite his fame, Dr. Kalam led a simple lifestyle. He was a pure vegetarian, owned very few personal belongings, and lived modestly even as the President of India.
• As the President of India, Dr. Kalam donated almost all of his salary and savings to charitable causes, especially those supporting education and rural development. He established the PURNA (Providing Urban Amenities to Rural Areas) mission to uplift rural India.
• Dr. Kalam was deeply spiritual. Although he was a devout Muslim, he regularly read both the Quran and Bhagavad Gita, believing in the unity of all religions and the power of spirituality in science and leadership.
• Even after serving as President, Dr. Kalam continued teaching students. On July 27, 2015, he passed away while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong — a true teacher till his last moment.
• Dr. Kalam dedicated his entire life to science, education, and serving the nation. He chose not to marry and considered students as his family.
• When Dr. Kalam passed away, he left behind no property, no bank balance, and no luxury possessions. His legacy was purely built on knowledge, values, and inspiration.

Books Written by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

Apart from Wings of Fire, Dr. Kalam authored several other influential books that continue to inspire readers worldwide:

• Ignited Minds

• India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium

• My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions

• The Life Tree

• Turning Points: A Journey Through Challenges

His writings continue to inspire students and professionals around the world.

Awards and Honors

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam received numerous awards for his contribution to science and public service, including:

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

• Padma Bhushan (1981)

• Padma Vibhushan (1990)

Death and Legacy

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shillong. His sudden demise left the nation in mourning.

Even today, he is remembered for his vision of a developed India and his famous quote:

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

Why APJ Abdul Kalam Called Doctor ?

Not because of an academic PhD, but because the world recognized his lifelong contribution to science, education, and humanity. His honorary doctorates were symbols of respect for a man whose wisdom and service transcended classrooms and universities.He proved that true education is not about degrees, but about inspiring others and serving society.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was not just a scientist or President — he was a symbol of hope, humility, and dedication. His life teaches us that success is not about wealth or power, but about knowledge, service, and inspiring others.

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