Heroes get remembered, but legends never die
- Yashika Aneja
- Jul 28, 2015
- 2 min read
“Do you not know that a man is not dead while his name is still spoken?” -Terry Pratchett
A man of impeccable character, an ocean full of knowledge, intellect and wisdom and above all a soul as noble as none; 'APJ Abdul Kalam’ walks away …marking an end of era!'
Born to a poor family in Ramanathan district of Tamil Nadu, ever since his childhood this man had big dreams and nothing could keep him away from living them. He specialised in aeronautical engineering from Madras institute of technology and thereafter what he gave to the nation is second to none.
He joined as a scientist and spent major part of his life at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DDRO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Popularly known as the ‘Missile Man of India’, he earned the title for his work on the development of ballistic missile and launch of vehicle technology. He played a pivotal role in Agni and Prithvi project launch. Kalam was accredited for development of various missiles and served as the principal scientific advisor to the Indian government. Despite his exceptional scientific bent of mind, never did he limit his thinking to defence. In fact every bit of his wisdom worked for the betterment of the people.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam at a press conference for the ‘Agni’ Missile project in New Delhi.
Sworn in as the president of India in 2002, Kalam undoubtedly made the finest to have presided India. His undying love for children and a special heart for the city of Hyderabad, made him take up the post of professor at IIT Hyderabad. Kalam was honoured with Padma Bhushan (1981) Padma Vibhushan (1990) and Bharta Ratna (1997) once again making the nation glow with pride! Having authored many books- ‘Wings of fire’, ‘My journey’, ‘Ignited minds-Unleashing the power within India’, his ideas spread across in various languages, Kalam hoped to see a developed nation by 2020.
Kalam walks in as President of India.
He truly believed that a teacher could make a difference to the society. Teaching wasn’t merely a profession for him. Indeed, above all he always wanted to be remembered as a teacher. Adored by a generation many folds younger to him, through his work and wisdom Kalam stood as an idol to many.
Delivering a lecture in Indian Institute of Management, he passed away doing what he loved the most!
A rare man who lived a rare life in the rarest way
Sir, in our hearts you will stay forever and your teachings will continue to inspire us and generations beyond. We shall miss you in a way, words can't describe!