Thursday, April 14, 2016

Remembering Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam...

A._P._J._Abdul_Kalam_in_2008
Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam
People’s president, Nuclear-Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) Scientist, Author of 17 books, Recipient of three of India’s highest civilian awards – Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Bharat Ratna and man of many facets, Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Kalam a.k.a A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. On 27th July 2015, completed his earthly journey and departed for eternity, leaving behind grieving millions, forever bereft of his inspiration and guidance.
Kalam's Village in Rameswaram a
Kalam's Village in Rameswaram c
Born into a poor family of wooden boat owner on the island of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India, sold newspapers as a kid to help his family. Kalam was an average student like others of his age. But what set him apart was his strong desire for learning, hard work and perseverance. A dreamer of all sorts, he dreamt big and put his thoughts into action.
His life was riddled with poverty, failures and numerous obstacles but he persevered and became hugely successful as a scientist, president and humanitarian. Optimism was his DNA and there was not even a speck of negativity in his words, deed or thought!
He can be quoted saying “Why be afraid of difficulties, sufferings and problems? When troubles come, try to understand the relevance of your sufferings. Adversity always presents opportunities for introspection.” This is what personified Kalam and his own life stands testimony to this.
A man of humble stature who dreamt big and inspired a nation to do so, brought India into top league of nations in  nuclear science, space and defense research.
A man of frugal living and high thinking, Kalam shunned power and aristocracy. His compassion transcended communal, class and social divides. A country where corruption and loot is a pride, Kalam didn’t even own a house. After leaving office as President, he rendered himself to teaching at the finest institutions in India. He loved to inspire youth of this nation and also breathed his last at a lecture in Indian Institute of Management, Shillong.
One of his famous quotes goes by “I have no belongings in the worldly sense. I have acquired nothing, built nothing, possess nothing—no family, sons, daughters.”
Subsequent outpouring of grief not just within India but among world leaders from over a dozen nations from Russia, America, Canada, Middle East and Asia proves  the world felt deprived of a great soul not just a genius scientist and leader. Rest in Peace Sir, Abdul Kalam. You were a beacon of light and forever are for countless Indians in life and thereafter……..      Kalam-Modi
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.PJ.  Abdul Kalam.