Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, a former President of India’s autobiography- ‘Wings of Fire: An Autobiography of APJ Abdul Kalam’ is a must-read for every Indian. I picked up this copy and found it very engaging. Kalam scrutinises his early life, effort, hardship, fortitude, luck and chance that eventually led him to lead Indian space research, nuclear and missile programs. He began his career, soon after his graduation from Aerospace engineering at MIT (Chennai), India at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited where he was assigned to build a prototype of a hovercraft. Later, when he was in ISRO, he assisted in developing Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which became the first space launch vehicle program.
Wings of Fire’ has been divided into 7 sections Preface, Acknowledgements, Introduction, Orientation, Creation, Propitiation, Contemplation and Epilogue. The ‘Creation’ section traverses through Kalam’s life and works from 1963 to 1980. Thumba and Satellite Launch Vehicle and related projects have been covered here. He was conferred Padma Bhushan in 1981.
The ‘Propitation’ section covers years from 1981 to 1991 scientist’s journey. He assisted in shaping up the Guided Missile Development Program. The missiles developed are – Prithvi, Trishul, Akash, Nag and Agni.
Kalam is also poet and here is an example
“Do not look at Agni
As an entity directed upward
To deter the ominous
Or exhibit your might.
It is fire in the heart of an Indian.
Do not even give it
The form of a missile
As it clings to the
Burning pride of this nation
And thus is bright.”
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam rose from humble origins and went on to become the President of India. As a President of India, he utilized every opportunity to address students mainly school students to dream big and become achievers in life. His contribution as a scientist and as President will remain unparalleled and he shall continue to inspire us.
The ‘missile man’ who was also a former President of India is no longer in this world. Dr. Kalam suffered a massive cardiac arrest during the lecture at IIM, Shillong. He was rushed to the hospital but could not be revived by the medical team. The nation mourns the loss of this great scientist and an inspiring individual. I would like to conclude with a few quotes from this great scientist
“Dream, Dream, Dream
Dream transforms into thoughts
And thoughts results in action.”
“This is my belief; that through difficulties and problems God gives us the opportunity to grow. So when your hopes and dreams are dashed, search among the wreckage, you may find a golden opportunity hidden in the ruins.”
Truly, a ‘People’s President’ who shall always be remembered.
July 28, 2015
RIP Dr Kalam. Respectful Salam to this great man who has given direction to our missile story.
July 28, 2015
Wing of Fire is indeed a great book every Indian should read. The greatest Visionary India ever saw.
Hope you will like my article too https://goo.gl/oCt5Iw
July 29, 2015
Yes, it is. RIP Dr.Kalam.
July 28, 2015
Great tribute to the great man! 🙂 May he rest in peace, and return if possible…
July 28, 2015
I was gifted Wings of Fire, a book that elevates us towards our dreams. Shri Abdul Kalam is priceless, timeless and the pride of the nation.
July 29, 2015
I salute the man. RIP Dr.Kalam.
July 28, 2015
A huge loss to the nation that can never be repaired. May he RIP.
July 29, 2015
As a nudnik American, I knew almost nothing about APJ Abdul Kalam and had to look him up. A fascinating story.
July 29, 2015
Thank you for stopping by. Glad you liked it.:)
August 12, 2015
On page50 of his latest and last book ‘TRANSCENDENCE’, Dr. APJ KALAM has written :-
“Pramukh Swamiji has put me in God synchronous orbit. No manoeuvers are required any more, as I am placed in my final position in eternity.”
Bottom line is ‘Spirituality’ starts where modern Science and Technology ends. Its triumph of ‘Spirituality’
over modern science and technology.
Visitors of this blog are recommended to read the book ‘ETERNAL VALUES’ – which explains, what is so special about ‘Pramukh Swami Maharaj’ and those knowing Gujarati language are invited to my audio
blog : http://www.ykshoneycomb.blogspot.com/
August 13, 2015
Thank you for stopping by and sharing this valuable information. I shall surely read these books.:)
May 29, 2016
You are cordially invited to the blog, I started recently – link is as follows:-
https://seekersworldblog.wordpress.com/ Here you will find text snippet in English of the Gujarati Audio Clips of the discourses delivered by Sadhu Brahmviharidas (Oxford gold medalist graduate). Some of them also relates to Dr.Kalam, which I am sure will be of interest to you. My knowledge of English language is below average & I am new blogger. As such, I will appreciate your guidance and suggestions to make this English blog of mine viewer friendly.
May 29, 2016
Thank you for stopping by and inviting me to your blog to check out more on Dr.Kalam. Will head over to your blog in a bit.