The journey of India’s ‘missile man’ and the 11th President Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, which came to an end on Monday at the age of 84, is not a classic rags to riches story, but a rare odyssey of rags to fame.

An institution builder, a workaholic bachelor who motivated young scientists and ignited the minds of young students across the country collapsed while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management in Shillong.

His vision 2020 to transform India into a developed nation, role in the development of the Agni missile and educational leadership endeared him to a wide section of the people.

From humble beginnings in the tranquil shore town of Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu to the Rashtrapathi Bhavan, Kalam’s life is a trajectory of achievements built on dreams, grit and determination. Political leaders across parties and his scientist friends recalled his rich contributions to the nation.

His universal appeal drew him to political achievements as the NDA Government led by Atal Behari Vajpayee made him the Presidential candidate in 2002. He won, rose above politics and his term in the Rashtrapathi Bhavan brought memories of the popularity of Pandit Nehru with children and the public.

In India, where icons are invariably from the silver screen or the world of cricket, Kalam matched their popularity thanks to his simplicity, motivating nature and achievements.

After his term as the President, he returned to his passion — teaching, writing and public service. He received several prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.

From successfully launching satellites through Satellite Launch Vehicles, to the Pokhran-2 nuclear tests in 1998, Kalam was wedded to self-reliance in technology. A versatile person, his passion was not limited to science alone. He was a poet, played the veena and was conversant with both the Quran as well as the Bhagavad Gita.

He has authored many books and Wings of Fire has been translated into Chinese as well.

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