More than a decade after his passing, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam continues to inspire millions with his vision, humility and unwavering belief in the power of education. Fondly remembered as the “Missile Man of India” and the “People’s President,” Kalam left an enduring legacy through his contributions to science, public service and nation-building.
Every year on July 27, people across India pay tribute to the former President by recalling his remarkable journey from a humble background to becoming one of the country’s most respected scientists and leaders. His speeches, books and inspirational quotes continue to motivate students, professionals and leaders to dream big, work hard and serve the nation with integrity.
Remembering Dr APJ Abdul Kalam
Dr APJ Abdul Kalam passed away on July 27, 2015, after suffering a cardiac arrest while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Shillong. True to his lifelong mission of educating young minds, he was interacting with students when he breathed his last.
Born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Kalam came from a modest family. As a child, he sold newspapers to help support his household while pursuing his education. His determination took him from studying Physics at St Joseph’s College to earning a degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology.
From Scientist to ‘People’s President’
Dr Kalam began his career with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) before joining the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He played a pivotal role in the successful launch of India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III), which placed the Rohini satellite into orbit in 1980.
He later led the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, overseeing the development of strategic missile systems, including Agni and Prithvi, earning him the title of the “Missile Man of India.” He also played a significant role in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998.
In 2002, Dr Kalam became the 11th President of India. During his tenure, he won widespread admiration for his accessibility, simplicity and constant engagement with students. Through his Vision 2020 initiative, he encouraged young Indians to work towards building a developed and self-reliant nation.
30 Inspiring Quotes by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam
- “Dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep.”
- “You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”
- “Dream, dream, dream. Dreams transform into thoughts and thoughts result in action.”
- “If you fail, never give up because F.A.I.L. means First Attempt In Learning.”
- “End is not the end. E.N.D. means Effort Never Dies.”
- “If you get ‘No’ as an answer, remember N.O. means Next Opportunity.”
- “Man needs difficulties because they are necessary to enjoy success.”
- “To succeed in your mission, you must have single-minded devotion to your goal.”
- “Great dreams of great dreamers are always transcended.”
- “All of us do not have equal talent. But all of us have an equal opportunity to develop our talents.”
- “Creativity is seeing the same thing but thinking differently.”
- “Learning gives creativity, creativity leads to thinking, thinking provides knowledge, knowledge makes you great.”
- “The best brains of the nation may be found on the last benches of the classroom.”
- “Teachers are the backbone of any country.”
- “One best book is equal to a hundred good friends, but one good friend is equal to a library.”
- “If you want to shine like a sun, first burn like a sun.”
- “Confidence and hard work are the best medicine to kill the disease called failure.”
- “You cannot change your future, but you can change your habits.”
- “Look at the sky. We are not alone.”
- “Be more dedicated to making solid achievements.”
- “Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow.”
- “Can we make an education system which will retain the smiles on the faces of our children?”
- “The father, the mother and the teacher can make a corruption-free nation.”
- “We will be remembered only if we give our younger generation a prosperous and safe India.”
- “Small aim is a crime.”
- “Beauty is in the heart, not in the face.”
- “For great men, religion is a way of making friends.”
- “Don’t take rest after your first victory.”
- “Your willingness to struggle will define your success.”
- “To live a pure life, we must be able to think for ourselves.”
Why Dr Kalam Continues to Inspire
Dr Kalam’s greatest strength was his simplicity despite his extraordinary achievements. He firmly believed that education was the most powerful tool for transforming society and consistently encouraged young people to pursue their dreams with dedication and perseverance.
Even after completing his term as President, he returned to classrooms and lecture halls, choosing to spend his time mentoring students. His books, including Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds, remain among the most influential works on leadership, self-belief and national development, ensuring that his ideas continue to inspire generations.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com