Bharat Ratna Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen “A. P. J.” Abdul Kalam, one of India’s rare gems.
Bharat Ratna Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen “A. P. J.” Abdul Kalam. Image source: One India
“My story—the story of the son of Jainulabdeen, who lived for over a hundred years on Mosque Street in Rameswaram island and died there; the story of a lad who sold newspapers to help his brother; the story of a pupil reared by Sivasubramania Iyer and Iyadurai Solomon; the story of a student taught by teachers like Pandalai; the story of an engineer spotted by MGK Menon and groomed by the legendary Prof. Sarabhai; the story of a scientist tested by failures and setbacks; the story of a leader supported by a large team of brilliant and dedicated professionals. This story will end with me, for I have no belongings in the worldly sense. I have acquired nothing, built nothing, possess nothing—no family, sons, daughters.”
You leave behind a great legacy Sir. All Indians are indebted to you for living a life dedicated to science and development of our nation. Your life was an example to all of us. Thank you for being a humble, secular, and an EXTRAORDINARY human being. People from all walks of life, especially individuals occupying public offices have a lot to learn from you.
Ek Sparsh 