A Tribute to Dr. Kalam’s Inspiring Journey
Peerzada Masarat Shah
On October 15, 2025, we celebrate the 94th birth anniversary of Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, lovingly known as the “Missile Man of India” and the “People’s President.” His life, woven with humility, vision, and unwavering dedication, continues to inspire millions worldwide. As we reflect on his remarkable contributions to science, education, and nation-building, we honor a man who turned dreams into reality and ignited young minds with hope and purpose.
Born on October 15, 1931, in the coastal town of Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Kalam grew up in a modest family. His father, a boat owner and imam, instilled in him values of simplicity and integrity. Despite financial hardships, young Kalam’s curiosity and determination shone brightly. He sold newspapers to support his education, showcasing his resilience. After graduating in physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, he pursued aeronautical engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology, marking the start of a journey that would elevate India’s technological prowess.
Dr. Kalam’s contributions to India’s space and defense programs are monumental. Joining the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1958, he worked on India’s first indigenous hovercraft. His brilliance led him to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he played a pivotal role in developing the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III). In 1980, the successful launch of Rohini, India’s first satellite, cemented his reputation as a visionary scientist. Returning to DRDO, he spearheaded the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), leading to the creation of missiles like Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Nag, and Trishul. His leadership in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests showcased India’s strength globally. For these achievements, he received the Padma Bhushan (1981), Padma Vibhushan (1990), and Bharat Ratna (1997), India’s highest civilian honor.
His philosophy was rooted in innovation for societal good. He famously said, **“Dream is not that which you see while sleeping, it is something that does not let you sleep.”** This quote encapsulates his tireless pursuit of excellence and belief that dreams, fueled by hard work, can transform nations.
In 2002, Dr. Kalam became India’s 11th President, serving until 2007. His presidency was unconventional—marked by accessibility, humility, and a deep connection with the masses, especially youth. He transformed Rashtrapati Bhavan into a “People’s Palace,” hosting students, farmers, and scientists. His vision for a developed India by 2020, outlined in his book *India 2020: A Vision for the New Millennium*, emphasized technology, education, and inclusivity. His speeches resonated with optimism, with one of his most quoted lines, **“You have to dream before your dreams can come true,”** inspiring generations to aspire fearlessly. His ability to connect with young minds earned him the title of “People’s President.” He believed in empowering youth, often saying, **“The ignited minds of the youth are the most powerful resource on the earth.”**
After his presidency, Dr. Kalam returned to his first love—teaching. He became a visiting professor at institutions like the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. On July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away, leaving a legacy etched in millions of hearts. His final moments, spent inspiring students, reflected his lifelong commitment to education. He authored several books, including *Wings of Fire*, an autobiography chronicling his journey from Rameswaram to the pinnacles of success, and *Ignited Minds*, a call to awaken India’s potential. His words, **“Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in the second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck,”** reflect his belief in perseverance.
Dr. Kalam’s life was a beacon of hope, proving that background does not define destiny. His vision for India—a nation self-reliant in technology, united in purpose, and driven by innovation—continues to guide policymakers and dreamers. He championed sustainable development, rural empowerment, and scientific advancement, urging India to become a knowledge superpower. On this birth anniversary, we honor Dr. Kalam not just as a scientist or president but as a teacher who believed in the power of dreams. His famous quote, **“Learning gives creativity, creativity leads to thinking, thinking provides knowledge, and knowledge makes you great,”** remains a guiding light for students and professionals.
His legacy lives through initiatives like the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University and countless scholarships in his name. His life reminds us that greatness is achieved through humility, hard work, and commitment to serving humanity. As we celebrate his 94th birth anniversary, let us pledge to carry forward his vision of a vibrant, innovative India, where every dream finds wings to soar. In his own words, **“We should not give up, and we should not allow the problem to defeat us.”** Dr. Kalam’s spirit continues to ignite minds, urging us to dream big and work tirelessly toward a better future.
