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A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: Biography, History, Career, Books, Family, Struggle, Achievements

Know more about KaifKaif - July 27, 2025 10:24 AM

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Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Death Anniversary: Today, the day of 27th July, reminds us of one such great son of India who dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation and the spread of knowledge. On this day, 27th July 2015, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam took his last breath while addressing the students at IIM Shillong. It was a symbol of his Karmayogi life that he kept inspiring and enlightening the youth of his country till his last moment. On his death anniversary, we pay tribute to him and pledge to follow the path shown by him.

Today, on his death anniversary, let us know about the life, history, career, books and many more interesting aspects of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.

APJ Abdul Kalam Introduction, Biography

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam) was not only the 11th President of India, but he is also known as 'Missile Man' and 'People's President'. His life story is an inspiration of struggle, hard work, dreams and dedication to the nation. Let us know in detail about different aspects of his life.

APJ Abdul Kalam Early life and family

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  • Born: 15 October 1931, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
  • Family: Ordinary Tamil Muslim family, father Jainulabdeen was in fisherman profession and mother Ashiamma was housewife. Kalam sahab, the youngest of five siblings, had a childhood full of financial difficulties.
  • Struggle: Due to financial constraints, he used to sell newspapers in his childhood to help the family.

Education

Level School/College Year Subject
Elementary Schwartz Higher Secondary School, Ramanathapuram - -
Graduation St. Joseph's College, Tiruchirappalli 1954 Physics
Masters Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) 1960 Aeronautical Engineering

APJ Abdul Kalam Career Start

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  • DRDO (1960): Started career with Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
  • ISRO (1969): Became Director of SLV (Satellite Launch Vehicle) in ISRO, launched the first Indian satellite 'Rohini'.
  • Missile Program: Played an important role in the manufacture of India's missiles (Agni, Prithvi, Trishul, Nag etc.).
  • Pokhran-2 Test (1998): Played a major role in India's nuclear test.

Special identity of Missile Man

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Dr. Kalam was given the nickname 'Missile Man' for the development of ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology, which made India a powerful nation on the global stage. His leadership skills, scientific dedication and technical management were excellent.

Presidential period (2002–2007)

  • Assumed office: 25 July 2002 - 25 July 2007
  • Respect: Support of both the ruling party and the opposition.
  • People's President: Especially popular among students, youth and common citizens.
  • Important decisions: President's rule in Bihar, decision on 'Office of Profit'.
  • After leaving office: Continued the work of education and inspiration in youth.

Books

Title Publication Year
Wings of Fire (Autobiography) 1999
India 2020 1998
Ignited Minds 2002
The Luminous Sparks 2004
Guiding Souls 2005
Mission of India 2005
Inspiring Thoughts 2007
My Journey 2013

Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Awards and Honors

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year Awards/Honors
1981 Padma Bhushan
1990 Padma Vibhushan
1997 Bharat Ratna (the country's highest civilian honour)
1997 Indira Gandhi Award

Amazing facts

  • Dr. Kalam inspired hundreds of students, youth, and teachers.
  • Simple clothes, simple life - his special quality.
  • Love for children and emphasis on education.
  • Campaigns like 'What Can I Give' boosted the morale of the youth.
  • Death: 27 July 2015, died while lecturing at IIM Shillong.

Learning from Dr. Kalam

  • Realizing dreams despite struggle.
  • Continuous creativity in education and science.
  • Keeping national interest paramount.
  • Respect for innovation, hard work and companionship.

Some interesting facts related to the life of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

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  • His full name was Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam.
  • He was born in a Tamil Muslim family.
  • He was a vegetarian. In his own words - “I had to become a vegetarian due to financial difficulties, but later I started enjoying it and now I am completely vegetarian.”
  • He was the first unmarried (bachelor) President of India.
  • His popularity among children was very high, he always inspired children.
  • His autobiography ‘Wings of Fire’ was first published in English, later it was also published in 13 other languages.

Conclusion

The life of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam is a wonderful source of inspiration for every Indian. Rising from an ordinary family and making his mark amongst the world's top scientists and leaders, establishing India's missile programme and science globally, spreading hope in education and among the youth - his indelible image will always inspire struggle, science and patriotism.

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About the Author:

Kaif Ansari Writter

Kaif Ansari

I'm a sports Writer with five years of experience, specializing in cricket and a variety of other sports like football, hockey, badminton, and kabaddi. My journey in sports journalism began in 2021 with Possible11, where I've been contributing ever since. My lifelong passion for cricket, ignited by a childhood dream of becoming a cricketer, fuels my writing. While the playing field wasn't my destiny, I found my calling in sharing the thrill of the game through words. I'm a dedicated CSK fan, and my favorite players are Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni.

Beyond the world of sports, I'm also deeply immersed in internet culture, movies, games, and technology. I enjoy creating content that explores these diverse interests, offering unique perspectives and insights. Whether it's breaking down the latest tech trends, diving deep into cinematic universes, or dissecting game strategies, I love to share my enthusiasm with a wider audience.

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