Remembering the Missile Man: 10 Lesser-Known Facets of Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.......by KBS Sidhu
On July 27, 2025, India solemnly marks the 10th death anniversary of one of its most revered sons—Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Affectionately known as the Missile Man of India, Dr. Kalam was not just a brilliant scientist and statesman but also a spiritual thinker, humble teacher, and beloved President.
While his contributions to India's missile and space programs are widely known, there are many lesser-known, touching, and sometimes astonishing facts about his life that continue to inspire millions. Here are ten such remarkable insights.
1. He Never Owned a Television Despite Being a Technology Pioneer
Dr. Kalam, a symbol of India’s technological renaissance, never owned a television set. His lifestyle remained exceptionally minimalist throughout his life—he possessed only 2,500 books, a wristwatch, six shirts, four trousers, three suits, and a single pair of shoes.
Rather than indulge in modern conveniences, he preferred getting news from newspapers and the radio, exemplifying his lifelong commitment to simplicity and focused living.
2. Switzerland Declared a Science Day in His Honor
In a rare international honour, Switzerland declared May 26 as Science Day to commemorate Dr. Kalam's visit to the country in 2006. He was the first Indian head of state to visit Switzerland in over 30 years.
This act of tribute by a foreign nation underscores his global stature as a thinker and innovator in science and technology.
3. He Was a Skilled Veena Player
Dr. Kalam was not just a scientist and statesman—he was also a man of the arts. He played the Veena, a classical Indian string instrument, and often turned to music for spiritual fulfilment and inner peace.
His musical passion finds a lasting tribute in the form of a statue of him playing the Veena at his memorial in Rameswaram. It symbolises his belief in the symbiotic relationship between science and spirituality.
4. He Asked the Internet About Terrorism and Got 30,000 Responses
In 2007, Dr. Kalam made a historic digital outreach by posting a question on Yahoo! Answers: "What should we do to free our planet from terrorism?" The response was phenomenal, with over 30,000 people replying, including personalities like Kiran Bedi, Leander Paes, and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
It was a reflection of his unwavering belief in democratic dialogue and mass participation in solving global issues.
5. He Dedicated His Famous Book to a 12th Grade Student
In his book "Ignited Minds", Dr. Kalam dedicated the work to Snehal Thakkar, a 12th-grade student from Gujarat.
When he asked students who India’s enemy was, Snehal answered: “Our enemy is poverty.” Deeply moved, Dr. Kalam not only dedicated the book to her but also invited her to attend his presidential swearing-in ceremony. It showed how deeply he valued youth perspectives.
6. He Was Frisked at JFK Airport Despite Being a Former President
In an incident that sparked diplomatic concern, Dr. Kalam was frisked twice at JFK Airport in New York in 2011. Even after boarding the plane, officials insisted on searching him again, prompting the reopening of the aircraft door.
However, Dr. Kalam dismissed the fuss with characteristic humility: “Forget about it. It is not worth talking about.” His grace in handling the situation was a lesson in dignity and statesmanship.
7. VVS Laxman Was the Only Cricketer He Followed on Twitter
Dr. Kalam followed only 38 people on Twitter, and among them, the only cricketer was VVS Laxman. Known for his elegant batting and impeccable sportsmanship, Laxman’s inclusion reflects Dr. Kalam’s admiration for integrity, grace, and excellence—not just in science or politics, but in every walk of life.
8. He Won MTV Youth Icon Awards Despite Being in His 70s
In a striking validation of his popularity among young Indians, Dr. Kalam won the MTV Youth Icon Award not once, but twice—in 2003 and 2006. That too, while he was well into his 70s. His influence transcended generational boundaries, proving that age was no barrier to being a source of inspiration for India’s youth.
9. A Plant Species Was Named After Him
In 2018, botanists discovered a new plant species in West Bengal’s Jaldapara and Buxa National Parks and named it Drypetes kalamii.
A rare shrub, it was found to have medicinal potential and is now considered critically endangered, with only around 50 specimens in the wild. Naming it after Dr. Kalam was a symbolic way to honour his contributions to science and the environment.
10. He Disguised Himself as a Soldier During Nuclear Tests
During the Pokhran-II nuclear tests in 1998, Dr. Kalam played a critical role in "Operation Shakti". To maintain utmost secrecy and avoid detection by foreign intelligence agencies, he disguised himself as a soldier.
This anecdote not only showcases his commitment to national security but also his readiness to step into any role for the country’s strategic advancement.
A Legacy Beyond Words
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s life story is far greater than the sum of his official titles or public accolades. From his modest lifestyle to his musical inclinations, from connecting with young minds to inspiring global citizens, his legacy is one of profound simplicity and eternal wisdom.
As India marks a decade since his passing, these ten lesser-known facts serve as powerful reminders of a man who remained forever grounded, ceaselessly curious, and universally beloved.
His ideals and values continue to ignite minds and light the path for generations to come.
July 27, 2025
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KBS Sidhu, Rtd IAS, Former Special Chief Secretary, Punjab
kbssidhu@substack.com
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