Kalam’s legacy lives on in classrooms, libraries, and hearts.
On July 27, 2025, India paused to honour the memory of one of its most beloved sons – Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, affectionately known as the Missile Man of India. Ten years have passed since his sudden demise while delivering a lecture at IIM Shillong, yet his legacy continues to ignite minds and inspire generations.
From humble beginnings in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to becoming the 11th President of India, Kalam’s life was a testament to the power of dreams, discipline, and dedication. This blog revisits his journey, his contributions, and the enduring impact he left on India and the world.
Table of Contents
A Life of Purpose: From Rameswaram to Rashtrapati Bhavan
Born on October 15, 1931, into a modest family, Kalam’s early life was shaped by simplicity and struggle. His father was a boat owner, and young Kalam sold newspapers to support his family. Despite financial constraints, he pursued education with relentless zeal, eventually earning a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology.
His career began at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and later flourished at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Kalam played a pivotal role in developing India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980.
The Missile Man of India
Kalam’s most celebrated contributions came through the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), which led to the development of strategic missiles like Agni, Prithvi, and Akash. His work earned him the moniker “Missile Man” and positioned India as a formidable force in defense technology.
He also played a key role in the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, which marked India’s emergence as a nuclear power. These achievements were not just technological milestones, they were symbols of national pride and self-reliance.
The Visionary President
In 2002, Kalam was elected as the President of India, supported by both the ruling NDA and the opposition. His presidency was marked by humility, accessibility, and a deep connection with the youth. He was often referred to as the “People’s President”, and rightly so.
Kalam broke the mold of traditional politics. He visited schools, responded to emails from students, and encouraged scientific curiosity. His speeches were peppered with motivational quotes and futuristic visions, urging young Indians to dream big and work hard.
Author, Educator, Mentor
Even after his presidency, Kalam remained deeply engaged in academia and public service. He authored several influential books, including:
- Wings of Fire – his autobiography
- Ignited Minds – a call to action for youth
- India 2020 – a blueprint for national development
His writings emphasized education, innovation, and ethical leadership. He believed that “Dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep.”
Until his final breath, Kalam was doing what he loved most – teaching. His death on July 27, 2015, while addressing students, was a poignant reminder of his lifelong commitment to learning and sharing knowledge.
Tributes on the 10th Anniversary
This year, tributes poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the commemorations, calling Kalam an “inspiring visionary, outstanding scientist, mentor, and great patriot”. Social media was flooded with quotes, memories, and messages of gratitude.
Educational institutions held special assemblies, essay competitions, and science exhibitions. Students recited Kalam’s quotes, planted trees in his honor, and pledged to uphold his values.
One of the most shared quotes was:
“If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”
Kalam’s Vision for India
Kalam envisioned a developed India by 2020, driven by innovation, education, and youth empowerment. While the timeline may have shifted, his goals remain relevant:
- Eradicate poverty through inclusive growth
- Strengthen rural infrastructure
- Promote sustainable development
- Foster scientific temper and entrepreneurship
He believed that students were the most powerful resource for national transformation. His dream was not just economic prosperity, but a morally upright and self-reliant India.
Global Recognition and Legacy
Kalam’s influence extended beyond borders. He received numerous honors, including:
- Bharat Ratna (India’s highest civilian award)
- Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan
- Honorary doctorates from over 40 universities worldwide
His speeches at international forums emphasized peace, cooperation, and the role of science in solving global challenges.
Lessons from Kalam’s Life
Dr. Kalam’s life offers timeless lessons:
- Humility: Despite his achievements, he remained grounded and approachable.
- Resilience: He faced failures but never gave up.
- Curiosity: He constantly sought knowledge and encouraged others to do the same.
- Service: He dedicated his life to the nation, not for fame, but for impact.
His mantra was simple:
“To succeed in your mission, you must have single-minded devotion to your goal.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Kalam’s legacy lives on in classrooms, libraries, and hearts. His birthday, October 15, is celebrated as World Students’ Day. His quotes adorn school walls, and his books are part of curricula.
Organizations and NGOs continue his mission by promoting STEM education, mentorship programs, and rural development initiatives. His vision of “Igniting Minds” is now a movement.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Etched in Time
Ten years after his passing, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam remains a beacon of hope and inspiration. His life was a symphony of science, service, and soul. He showed that greatness is not about titles, but about touching lives.
As India commemorates his 10th death anniversary, the message is clear: Dream big, work hard, and serve selflessly. In a world often divided by politics and power, Kalam’s legacy reminds us of the unifying power of knowledge, kindness, and vision.
Let us not just remember him-let us live by his ideals.
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