Abdul Kalam

Abdul Kalam, India's "Missile Man," was a scientist, engineer, and former President. He led India's space program and developed the country's first satellite launch vehicle.

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Profession :

World Leader

Birthday :

October 15, 1931

Star Sign :

Libra

Death Date:

July 27, 2015

Age :

83

Birthplace :

Rameswaram, India

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India, was an extraordinary scientist, engineer, and visionary leader who made significant contributions to India’s scientific and technological progress. He was the son of Jainulabdeen Marakayar, a boat owner, and Ashiamma, a housewife. Kalam completed his schooling in Rameswaram and went on to study physics at St. Joseph’s College, Tiruchirappalli. He later earned a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology in 1954.

Kalam joined the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in 1958, where he played a pivotal role in India’s space program. He led the development of India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV) project, successfully launching the Rohini satellite in 1980. Kalam served as the Project Director of India’s first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3) and became the Chief Executive of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) in 1983. He oversaw the development of various missile systems, including the Agni and Prithvi missiles.

In 1992, Kalam was appointed as the Scientific Advisor to the Minister of Defense. He went on to serve as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007, becoming the first scientist to hold this position. Kalam received numerous awards for his contributions to science and technology, including the Padma Bhushan in 1981, the Padma Vibhushan in 1990, and the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1997. He was also honored with international awards such as the Von Karman Award from the International Academy of Astronautics in 1998 and the Hoover Medal from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in 2009.

Kalam was married to Yamuna Kalam, who passed away in 1999. Although they had no children of their own, Kalam was known for his deep love and affection for children. He was passionate about writing and authored several inspiring books, including “Wings of Fire” (1999), “Ignited Minds” (2002), and “The Kalam Effect” (2012). Kalam is remembered for his simplicity, humility, and strong moral character.

Abdul Kalam was a voracious reader with a personal library of over 15,000 books. He was a gifted musician and played the veena, a traditional Indian string instrument. Kalam had a lifelong interest in spirituality and was known for his deep religious beliefs. He was a strong advocate for education and youth empowerment, often interacting with students and inspiring them to pursue their dreams.

Abdul Kalam’s contributions to India’s scientific and technological advancements, as well as his exemplary leadership and personal qualities, have left a lasting impact on the nation and the world. He remains an iconic figure and a source of inspiration for generations to come. Known as the “Missile Man of India,” Abdul Kalam was a renowned scientist, engineer, and the 11th President of India. He played a pivotal role in India’s space program and was instrumental in developing the country’s first indigenous satellite launch vehicle, the SLV-3. Kalam’s contributions to science and technology earned him numerous accolades, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor.