APJ Abdul Kalam, the man of self-confidence and determination left the world leaving everyone teary-eyed on the evening of Monday, July 27. He made India stand amongst the powerful countries of the world in terms of development, science and technology, and education. He spent his whole life serving for the nation working at India’s civilian space program and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). In spite of a successful career, he will always be remembered for his simplicity and humility. He believed in simple living and high thinking and his life is a motivation to everyone.

image source

Let’s know some of the interesting facts about Kalam’s life on the occasion of his 87th birth anniversary:

1. Kalam was born on 15 October 1931 to Tamil-Muslim parents. His father Jainulabudeen was a boat owner and Ashiamma was a housewife. They lived in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. He had a difficult childhood. 

image source

2. At a very young age, he had started distributing newspapers after his school hours to help his family financially and add some to his father’s income.

3. He loved studying and spent most of the time in study. Mathematics and Physics were his favorite subjects. Later, he took up aerospace engineering.

4. He had a great interest in aerospace engineering and his studies in the same field brought him close to India’s civilian space program and military missile development program.

image source

5. He was the man behind the development of ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology. Due to this, he was named Missile Man of India. 

6. Kalam was included in the pioneers of India’s first space launch-vehicle program at ISRO. He was awarded Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna. He also received honorary doctorates from 40 universities.

7. He is known to write around 15 books on various subjects which includes nuclear physics, spiritual experiences etc. 

8. Kalam’s autobiography was first published in English then translated into 13 languages which include French and Chinese. Apart from this, there are six additional biographies are written on his life and works.

9. Director Nila Madhab Panda made a film on Kalam’s life. It was I Am Kalam released in 2011. It featured a poor Rajasthani boy, who is inspired by the life of APJ Abdul Kalam. The former President of India’s life inspired that young boy to achieve big in life.

10. Kalam became 11th President of India, succeeding KR Narayanan. He took the pledge as President of India on 25 July 2002. He was affectionate that he is known as the ‘People’s President.’

Our nation is proud to have such a inspiring personality and he will always be remembered!

Published by Mamatha on 14 Oct 2018