APJ Abdul Kalam: A Motivational Icon for the Youth in India

Abstract

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was a simple, down-to-earth man who believed in marrying the goodness of human spirit with the power of technology for maximizing good for the human race. Abdul Kalam, one of the most remarkable leaders of contemporary India, remained an extremely popular public figure, as long as he remained alive, but even after his demise, he remained a guiding star to many a strayed boats. He had 1.8 million people following him on Facebook and used to receive about 300 emails every day. His active and visible presence on the social media provided a unique opportunity to engage with his readers in a way that has never done before. His books provide insights into the issues which concerns and engage the minds of young Indians. The wide spectrum of issues reflected in these books are like the colours of the rainbow, each one different from the other, but all emanating from one light. Through his books, he wanted to keep alive the lights in the minds and souls of our youth, and inspire them to reach great heights of achievement. Reflecting upon a wide range of themes of abiding human, national and global concerns, Dr. Kalam's inspiring, and magical words engage and captivate the listener's mind and heart. He uses simple words directly from the heart to air out his opinion on wide range of themes, concerning both national and global. It is remarkable that how, APJ Abdul Kalam, the 11th President of India, continues to be such a popular public figure even years demitting office. Much sought, much admired, he is an inspiration for the youth and they usually turn to him for advice, guidance, and solace or just simply to be in touch with him, as long as he remained alive. The mentoring, the directions, the solutions he provides are all based on the wisdom of his experience, as he knows well the trials and tribulations of the hard rocky road of life that he has walked from Rameswaram to the Rashtrapati Bhawan. Reflecting on the challenges of personal growth which each one of us faces in our daily lives to the more complex issues confronting us as a society and as a nation, his books provides a roadmap for living an inspired and purposeful life.