A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

Date of Birth: October 15, 1931

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: July 27, 2015

Biography

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, widely known as A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, was an eminent Indian scientist and statesman who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Born into a humble Tamil Muslim family on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Kalam’s early life was marked by financial challenges which he offset by working as a newspaper vendor. Kalam graduated in Physics from St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli, and later studied aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute of Technology (MIT). His career began at the Aeronautical Development Establishment of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). He later joined the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he played a crucial role in the development of India’s first satellite launch vehicle, SLV-III, which successfully deployed the Rohini satellite in near-Earth orbit in 1980. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” Kalam was instrumental in the development of ballistic missile technology and launch vehicle technology in India. His work in the Indian nuclear weapons program led to the successful Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, cementing India’s status as a nuclear power. In 2002, Kalam was elected President of India, winning the election with a significant majority. His presidency was marked by his vision for transforming India into a developed nation by 2020 and his efforts to promote education and youth empowerment. After his presidency, Kalam continued to be active in public life, dedicating himself to education, writing, and public service until his death. He passed away on July 27, 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong.

5 Interesting Facts about A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

1. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was the first scientist and first bachelor to serve as the President of India.

2. He played a pivotal role in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.

3. Kalam was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1997.

4. He authored numerous books, including “Wings of Fire,” an autobiography that has inspired millions.

5. Despite his high-profile career, Kalam lived a simple life and donated his presidential salary to charitable causes.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

1. “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”

2. “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”

3. “If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”

4. “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident.”

5. “Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam was known for his simplicity and did not amass significant personal wealth. His net worth was modest, primarily consisting of his books and intellectual contributions.

Children

A. P. J. Abdul Kalam never married and had no children. He often referred to the youth of India as his children and dedicated much of his life to their education and empowerment.