Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, widely celebrated as A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, was an eminent Indian aerospace scientist and politician who carved his niche as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. Born and nurtured in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, he pursued physics and aerospace engineering, subsequently dedicating four decades to a career in science and administration. Predominantly associated with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), he was instrumental in the advancement of India's civilian space programme and military missile projects. His significant contributions earned him the title of Missile Man of India.

Kalam played a crucial role in India's Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, marking a pivotal moment in the country's nuclear capabilities. His election as President was supported by both the Bharat... Read More Read More iya Janata Party and the Indian National Congress, earning him the affectionate moniker of the People's President. Post-presidency, he returned to a life of education, writing, and public service. Kalam's legacy is decorated with numerous awards, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour.

On 27 July 2015, while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong, Kalam suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and vision. His funeral in Rameswaram saw thousands, including dignitaries, paying their respects, and he was laid to rest with full state honours.