apj abdul kalam biography wings of fire

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``WINGS OF FIRE'': Autobiography of A P J Kalam, India's`` Missile Man'' President

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The Criterion: An International journal in English, Volume: Vi, Issue: 1, 2015

Abstract: APJ Abdul Kalam is renowned Indian scientist and administrator, who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. He is compassionate soul with a beautiful mind. His co-authored autobiography with subordinate Arun Tiwari entitles “Wings of Fire”. His majestic tutelage, within modest means of his Patriarch during infantile years attributes to the grandeur accomplishments in his later life. The episodes from his juvenile ages analyzed and explored to determine the genesis of his acumen and eminence in the present context. Keywords: Genesis, Nurture, Tutelage, Acumen, Eminence, Infantile, Mystics, Attributes, Juvenile, Reconnoitre

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University Press (India) Private limitd Wings Of Fire: An Autobiography Paperback – Import, January 1, 1999

Every common man who by his sheer grit and hard work achieves success should share his story with the rest for they may find inspiration and strength to go on, in his story. The 'Wings of Fire' is one such autobiography by visionary scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who from very humble beginnings rose to be the President of India. The book is full of insights, personal moments and life experiences of Dr. Kalam. It gives us an understanding on his journey of success.

Dr. Kalam by narrating his life journey evokes the reader to identify with one?s inner fire and potential, for he was of the firm belief that each one of us was born with the strength and potential to make a tangible change in the world. How he inspired himself to achieve dreams and how he went about accomplishing so much is what the book captures nicely.

The book recollects many anecdotes and stories from childhood, his time at school and college. The time spent at the Langley Research Center, NASA and Wallops Flight Facility gets a lot of attention.

Personal tragedies have not been left out. The time when he lost his father and how he felt when conferred with many awards like the Padma Bhushan have been written in much detail.

The second half of the book deals with Dr Kalam, the scientist who made a significant contribution in developing the countries guided missile program, a pioneering effort for the security of the nation. It's not with reason that he was nicknamed as the 'Missile Man of India'. The book also contains 24 photographs at various stages of his life.

Authored by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Mr. Arun Tiwari, the 180 page book 'The Wings of Fire' was first published in the year 2000. Mr Tiwari is a well-known missile scientist who has worked with Dr. Kalam. Having become a bestseller, the book has even been translated into thirteen languages, which includes Chinese and French.

Dr APJ Abdul Kalam from 2002 to 2007 served as the 11th President of India. Greatly admired all over India, he was a scientist by profession, who played a leading role in developing the country's missile program. From humble roots in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr Kalam in an inspirational autobiography 'The Wings of Fire' traces the rise and the mark he made in life.

Mr. Arun Tiwari, a scientist, was a colleague of Dr Kalam.

• Print length 700 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Sangam Books Ltd
• Publication date January 1, 1999
• Dimensions 8.66 x 1.18 x 11.02 inches
• ISBN-10 9788173711466
• ISBN-13 978-8173711466
• See all details

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 8173711461
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sangam Books Ltd; First Edition (January 1, 1999)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 700 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9788173711466
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-8173711466
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 15.2 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.66 x 1.18 x 11.02 inches
• #1,000 in Scientist Biographies
• #1,508 in Presidents & Heads of State Biographies

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A. p. j. abdul kalam.

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Customers find the book highly inspiring and interesting for its spiritual insights. They say it brings positivity and is an excellent journey of a great man. Readers also mention the book is a history lesson, a management story, and a confirmation of the greatness of Dr. Kalam.

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Wings Of Fire An Autobiography Paperback – 1 January 1999

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• Print length 180 pages
• Language English
• Dimensions 22 x 3 x 28 cm
• Publisher Universities Press
• Publication date 1 January 1999
• ISBN-10 9788173711466
• ISBN-13 978-8173711466
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 8173711461
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Universities Press; First Edition (1 January 1999); International Universities Press
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 180 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9788173711466
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-8173711466
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ Customer suggested age: 14 years and up
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 430 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 22 x 3 x 28 cm
• Net Quantity ‏ : ‎ 1.00 Piece
• Importer ‏ : ‎ 7078704485
• Packer ‏ : ‎ 7078704485
• Generic Name ‏ : ‎ Wings of Fire
• #17 in Biographies & Autobiographies (Books)
• #36 in Reference (Books)

About the author

A. p. j. abdul kalam.

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Customers find the book inspirational, insightful, and enlightening. They say it speaks volumes about the human spirit, aspirations, and the zeal to achieve what they aim for. Readers also mention the book fills their hearts with positivity and hope. They describe it as an enriching experience that leaves them with a sense of purpose.

"...The book is full of insights , personal moments and life experiences of Dr. Kalam. It gives us an understanding on his journey of success...." Read more

"...same to many of my kins for the sole reason of its power to inspire millions by every anecdote that Dr Kalam shares in his autobiography." Read more

"...do not drag your feet…’ Wings of Fire do manage to fill your heart with positivity and hope , scoring high on the simplicity and motivational..." Read more

"...It's such an inspiring autobiography that takes you through his life journey, struggles, and his rise to becoming the Missile Man of India...." Read more

Customers find the writing style of the book simple, clear, and easy to understand. They also say it's written by a great scientist and ex-Indian President. Readers also mention the book has famous quotes from renowned authors.

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Wings of Fire by Abdul Kalam Summary and Analysis

An autobiography.

Life gets busy. Has Wings of Fire been gathering dust on your bookshelf? Instead, pick up the key ideas now.

We’re scratching the surface here. If you don’t already have the book, order it here or get the audiobook for free to learn the juicy details.

Abdul Kalam’s Perspective

Abdul Kalam was one of India’s most distinguished scientists. He was an Aerospace engineer, professor, and chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology. On top of this, he also served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. During his term as President, he was popularly known as the People’s President.

He was responsible for the development of India’s first satellite launch vehicle, the SLV-3. Kalam is popularly known as the Missile Man of India for developing ballistic missiles and space rocket technology. Kalam also played a pivotal role in India’s Pokhran-II nuclear test in 1998, the first since India’s initial nuclear test in 1974.

He also received honorary doctorates from thirty universities and the country’s three highest civilian honors — Padma Bhushan (1981), Padma Vibhushan (1990), and Bharat Ratna (1997).

Introduction

Wings of Fire is the autobiography of the former President of India, Dr. Abdul Kalam. Kalam went from being a humble boy in South India to developing India’s nuclear weapons and becoming President. Through this autobiography, the reader gains a glimpse into pre-partition India. Kalam also exposes readers to the positive thinking and ideas that helped him become such a success. This is the story of Kalam’s rise from obscurity and his personal and professional struggles. It is also a saga of independent India’s struggle for technological self-sufficiency and defensive autonomy.

StoryShot #1: Kalam’s Upbringing

Kalam starts the book at the beginning of his life. He was born in Rameswaram, India, to a secure middle-class Tamil family. His father owned a boat, which is a sign of wealth. Rameswaram was a great environment to grow up in, as there was a tight-knit community where everybody supported each other. People were willing to talk about religion and spirituality openly. From a young age, Kalam developed a respect for other religions. His father also worked as an Imam in the local mosque. Kalam grew up believing that faith is an essential part of being human.

All family members encouraged Kalam to work hard and excel at school. Kalam’s family talked a lot about the latest advancements in science and new groundbreaking literature over dinner. These conversations formed a foundation for the passion for academia that Kalam developed. Kalam was close to his parents and described his mother as more like a friend than a parent. He also introduces the readers to his closest friend, Ahmed Jalaluddin. Kalam developed intellectual and spiritual maturity from a young age because Ahmed was about 15 years older. They frequently visited the mosque together and talked about Islam. 

StoryShot #2: Learning Difficult Lessons at High School

To fulfill his dream of learning about the most advanced technology and science, Kalam left his hometown to attend Schwartz High School in Ramanathapuram. At first, Kalam thoroughly enjoyed his time at school. However, one day a new teacher arrived. This teacher, called Rameswaram Shastry, saw Kalam sitting next to a Hindu student. He told Kalam that this was not allowed and decided to send Kalam to the back of the class. This was an early example of the beliefs people held during the partition of India. After this experience, Kalam decided to stop the poison of prejudice from spreading, rather than spreading it himself. He continued to be open to all religions throughout his life, including during and after India’s partition.

When Kalam was a young boy, he sold newspapers to help his brother reduce their financial struggles. In the book, Kalam praises the demands and support of friends and family as the cornerstone of his life’s successes.

StoryShot #3: Kalam’s First Experiences With Engineering

Kalam continued to excel throughout high school and remained particularly interested in science. After completing the B.Sc. in physics, Abdul Kalam noticed that he needed to engage with engineering to make his dreams a reality. So, he chose to apply for an engineering course at the Madras Institute of Technology. That said, despite coming from a relatively wealthy background, the admission fees were still too expensive for him. Luckily, his eldest sister saw his potential and was willing to help him obtain a place. She supported him financially throughout the early stages of his time at the Madras Institute of Technology. 

StoryShot #4: Learning to Fly

This generosity encouraged Kalam to work as hard as possible to obtain a scholarship. His hard work eventually paid off, and he took some financial burdens off his elder sister. As well as academic success, Kalam was working towards living his dream. He had always dreamed of flying an aircraft. So, it makes perfect sense that Kalam decided to choose aeronautical engineering as his major at university.

Kalam provides advice to future engineering students. Specifically, he says, ‘When they choose their specialization, the essential point to consider is whether the choice articulates their inner feelings and aspirations.’ Kalam decided to pursue aeronautical engineering because it aligned with his passions. Kalam suggests that future engineers, and all future professionals, should choose a role that aligns with their dreams. This is the most critical factor.

StoryShot #5: Looking for Work

After graduating from university, Kalam had to choose between two passions. His first option was joining the Air Force. His second option was to seek a job at the Directorate of Technical Development and Production. Essentially, the latter would involve working for India’s Ministry of Defence. Kalam applied for the Air Force to achieve his dream of flying, but he was ultimately rejected. 

Kalam was initially deflated. Deeply disappointed, he trekked down to nearby Rishikesh, where he met Swami Sivananda, a spiritual teacher, author and yoga guru. Kalam considers this meeting to be one of the most important events in his life. Sivananda taught him that he had to accept his destiny and go ahead with his life. It is not worth mulling over things in the past. Instead, Kalam was better off moving forward. This is exactly what Kalam did. He could still use his passion for aeronautical engineering by working for the Directorate of Technical Development and Production as a Senior Scientific Assistant. 

Within this role, Kalam experienced significant setbacks. He thoroughly enjoyed the freedom he was given to design his aircraft. He designed an indigenous Hovercraft called Nandi. Kalam worked hard and used innovation to design this hovercraft. The new ministry rejected his design for imported hovercrafts. Essentially, Kalam had been told that his work was not good enough. Again, his aeronautical dreams had been quashed, but Kalam remained positive. He remembered what Sivananda had taught him: Certain events may be out of your control in life, and you should not take them personally.

StoryShot #6: Kalam’s Destiny Changes

Although Kalam’s design, Nandi, was initially rejected, this was not the end of its story. The design had already created interest and buzz. Then, as if destiny came knocking, the Indian Committee for Space Research invited Kalam for an interview. They were going to interview him for the post of Rocket Engineer. In this interview, he met Prof. Sarabhai, the father of the Indian Space Program. Kalam got the job and spent many years working as a Rocket Engineer. So, a large proportion of this part of the book is educational. Kalam outlines the different space stations and organizations based within India. After his initial setback, Kalam excelled in rocket science. He received the Padma Bhushan award after SLV-3, one of his rockets, was successfully launched. The Padma Bhushan is the second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India. He then moved to rocketry at the Defence Research and Development Organization. Kalam successfully introduced the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme for the development of five different missiles. On the successful launch of India’s missile program, Kalam received the Padma Vibhushan. Kalam thinks failures are seeds for learning and believed India could be a technological leader despite repeated failures.

He also learned many valuable management and leadership lessons from Prof. Sarabhai. In the early stages of his career, Kalam trusted that a free exchange of views was more desirable than giving direction. Kalam also learned that leaders exist at every level.

StoryShot #7: Kalam’s Approach to Work

Kalam had a strict schedule, even though he was leading projects. Firstly, he would enter the office and clean his table. This allowed Kalam to create an environment where he could work effectively. After cleaning his table, he prioritized the papers that required immediate action. While doing this, he would remove everything else from his sight, other than those papers. His focus allowed him to take action immediately when he identified work that needed to be done. This was especially true for time-critical tasks that could make an impact or make him memorable. 

Kalam’s general work attitude was daring, with persistence to perfection. In his eyes, perfection requires an individual to make mistakes in the past and learn from them. So, he favored allowing mistakes as part of the learning process. He decided to adopt this approach because mistakes are inevitable but generally manageable. Kalam suggests that you build your own education by developing the skills that will correct your mistakes. 

Based on this ethos, Kalam was awarded India’s top three civilian awards, i.e., Bharat Ratna in 1997, Padma Vibhushan in 1990, and Padma Bhushan in 1981. He was also glorified with honorary degrees from more than 30 universities around the world.

StoryShot #8: Kalam’s Death

Although not covered in this book, Kalam’s death follows the type of person he was. Specifically, Kalam passed away due to cardiac arrest while giving a speech to scientific students. He committed his life to advancing India’s scientific and technological understanding.

StoryShot #9: The Three Mighty Forces

To succeed in life and achieve results, you must achieve and understand three mighty forces. 

• Expectations

These were the most important forces driving Kalam towards success. He wanted to make a difference in India through science and technology. Kalam also believed in his ability and in God to guide him towards these desires. This belief was strong and was not swayed by setbacks, such as when he was rejected from the Air Force. Instead of giving up, Kalam accepted that his life was just guiding him towards a different and more complementary path. Finally, Kalam explains that you need to have expectations for your life. Expectations allow you to set goals and react accordingly. Without expectations, you will not have any success or failure. Importantly, expectations allow you to identify failure and learn from these experiences.

Final Summary and Review of Wings of Fire

Wings of Fire covers the life of one of the most influential individuals in India’s history. Abdul Kalam had a huge political influence on his home country, but he also influenced the scientific world. The message you can take from this book is to use desire, belief and expectations to achieve your goals.

Wings of Fire Quotes

“Dreams are not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep.” — Abdul Kalam, Wings of Fire

“When learning is purposeful, creativity blossoms. When creativity blossoms, thinking emanates. When thinking emanates, knowledge is fully lit. When knowledge is lit, economy flourishes.” — Abdul Kalam, Wings of Fire

“If you fail, never give up because F.A.I.L. means first Attempt In Learning. End is not the end, in fact E.N.D. means Effort Never Dies. If you get No as an answer, remember N.O. means Next Opportunity.” — Abdul Kalam, Wings of Fire

We rate Wings of Fire 4.4/5.

How would you rate Abdul Kalam’s book based on this summary?

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Wings of Fire: An Autobiography of APJ Abdul Kalam Paperback – Import, Jan. 1 1999

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Every common man who by his sheer grit and hard work achieves success should share his story with the rest for they may find inspiration and strength to go on, in his story. The 'Wings of Fire' is one such autobiography by visionary scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who from very humble beginnings rose to be the President of India. The book is full of insights, personal moments and life experiences of Dr. Kalam. It gives us an understanding on his journey of success.

Dr. Kalam by narrating his life journey evokes the reader to identify with one?s inner fire and potential, for he was of the firm belief that each one of us was born with the strength and potential to make a tangible change in the world. How he inspired himself to achieve dreams and how he went about accomplishing so much is what the book captures nicely.

The book recollects many anecdotes and stories from childhood, his time at school and college. The time spent at the Langley Research Center, NASA and Wallops Flight Facility gets a lot of attention.

Personal tragedies have not been left out. The time when he lost his father and how he felt when conferred with many awards like the Padma Bhushan have been written in much detail.

The second half of the book deals with Dr Kalam, the scientist who made a significant contribution in developing the countries guided missile program, a pioneering effort for the security of the nation. It's not with reason that he was nicknamed as the 'Missile Man of India'. The book also contains 24 photographs at various stages of his life.

Authored by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and Mr. Arun Tiwari, the 180 page book 'The Wings of Fire' was first published in the year 2000. Mr Tiwari is a well-known missile scientist who has worked with Dr. Kalam. Having become a bestseller, the book has even been translated into thirteen languages, which includes Chinese and French.

Dr APJ Abdul Kalam from 2002 to 2007 served as the 11th President of India. Greatly admired all over India, he was a scientist by profession, who played a leading role in developing the country's missile program. From humble roots in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Dr Kalam in an inspirational autobiography 'The Wings of Fire' traces the rise and the mark he made in life.

Mr. Arun Tiwari, a scientist, was a colleague of Dr Kalam.

• Language English
• Publisher Sangam Books Ltd
• Publication date Jan. 1 1999
• Dimensions 22 x 3 x 28 cm
• ISBN-10 9788173711466
• ISBN-13 978-8173711466
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ 8173711461
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sangam Books Ltd (Jan. 1 1999)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9788173711466
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-8173711466
• Item weight ‏ : ‎ 430 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 22 x 3 x 28 cm

About the author

A. p. j. abdul kalam.

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Wings of Fire Summary by Abdul Kalam

Introduction.

Wings of Fire is the autobiography of former Indian president and eminent scientist Late APJ Kalam. The book is co-written by Arun Tiwari.

Dr Kalam’s took the reins at Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and inspired generations through some of the most innovative, and breathtaking scientific feats of independent India.

The book starts with a homage to his parents and in particular to his mother Kalam named ‘My mother’. The book opens into four distinct parts named as

Book Summary

Orientation.

It also covers his early education leading up to his graduation in aeronautical engineering degree from the Madras Institute of Technology.

He hailed from a working-class Tamil Muslim family and the book is an interesting peek into the harmonious commingling of Hindus and Muslims of India celebrating the multi-ethnic, multi-religious and composite wealth India.

The next part concentrated on his progress as a man of science and innovation. It revolves around his work with defence and space projects.

Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) became his first employers after completing his education as he was given a project on hovercrafts.

He would go on to be part of several important satellite launches during his stint with DRDO with the crowning jewel being the Project Director of SLV-III, India�s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (1980).

Propitiation

He even produced healthcare products using the same missile technology. He earned his moniker of �Missile-man of India� for his achievement in this phase of his life. His insistence on a participative model of management was based on bringing the best out of every person. It made him a scientist with a soul.

Contemplation

As ex-officio chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee to the Cabinet (SAC-C), he went to chart out a vision of India 2020 as the World welcomed the new millennium.

A common man�s journey to the orbit of success and commendation, the autobiography is widely considered one of the most inspiring of its time.

It is the message of the book wings of fire and it is something that young readers of his autobiography must ponder over.

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Book Review: “Wings of Fire: An Autobiography of Abdul Kalam” by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Arun Tiwari

“Wings of Fire: An Autobiography of Abdul Kalam”  is written by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Arun Tiwari. This book is an autobiography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, former president of India. This story sheds light on the journey of a young boy from Rameswaram to become a renowned scientist. It reflects how simple living, dedication, strong will and hard work led to success. It also shows how cultural unity impacts the lives of individuals.

The story begins with Kalam as a boy  around 1930 in the village of Rameswaram where he lived with his parents and four brothers and one sister. In this book, the author tells us how the role of family, relatives, friends, and society contribute to an individual’s life. Kalam describes his village where everyone lives in harmony. Religious discrimination was unknown at that time. A passage that shows the closeness  they had:  “The high priest of Rameswaram temple , Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry , was a very close friend of my father’s . One of the most vivid memories of my early childhood is of the two men , each in his traditional attire , discussing spiritual matters.”

When he was very young, Kalam wanted to join the Indian Airforce but he was not able to clear the interview. Far from being demotivated, he focused more on studies, started his career in Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), and was involved in the design of a hovercraft. He went to NASA on a training program. He moved to Indian Space Research and there he met Vikram Sarabhai. He also met many geniuses who inspired him. The book also describes leadership and teamwork, while making the projects. It shows how a  man becomes a leader whenever there is a successful project or a failed one.

The book reveals extensive and detailed project work by Dr. APJ Kalam, which I find distracting from the story of his life. Some readers may find this detailed descriptions boring and unappealing. It highlights the successful execution of “Agni” and other projects.

The book narrates India’s technological achievements at a time, few nations can boast of. It speaks about some brilliant minds who worked behind Indian space research such as Vikram Sarabhai and Dr. Brahm Prakash and their contribution towards ISRO.

As a reader, this book initially is very interesting particularly the portions from his younger days to a college student like how his family encouraged him. Later, the writing becomes a bit monotonous as it gives minute illustrations of the projects. At the end, he offers advice to the younger generation not to get demotivated and lead a positive life.

This book demonstrates how Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s simple living and positive thinking became an inspiration for the Indian youth.

Argha Chakraborty

Divyanshi   .

It is very helpful for me after writing this review I read the book wings of fire and I love this book I like to read this type of books it helps us to motivate our self and self inspiration.

RDK,FGK   

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It was nice.

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Wings of Fire Summary And Themes by Abdul Kalam

Table of Contents

Wings of Fire Summary by Abdul Kalam, What is the summary of the Wings of Fire by APJ Abdul Kalam?, What is the main theme of Wings of Fire?, Who is the main character in Wings of Fire?, Wings of Fire is a life narrative written in autobiographical form by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the eleventh President of India and a distinguished aerospace engineer. The book, which Arun Tiwari co-wrote, offers details on Kalam’s upbringing, schooling, professional background, and involvement in India’s space and defense initiatives. The story, which was published in 1999, effectively conveys Kalam’s journey from a lowly upbringing to prominence as a statesman and visionary scientist.

Wings of Fire Summary:

Early Life and Education: Abdul Kalam was born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, in 1931, into a modest family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a boat owner and an imam at a local mosque. Despite the financial constraints, Kalam’s parents instilled in him strong values of honesty, hard work, and compassion. The young Kalam had an early fascination with flight, and he was inspired by the sight of birds soaring in the sky.

Kalam’s educational journey began at Schwartz Higher Secondary School in Ramanathapuram. His keen interest in science and mathematics led him to pursue a degree in aeronautical engineering. He gained admission to the Madras Institute of Technology, where he excelled in his studies. Wings of Fire Summary And Themes by Abdul Kalam

Career in Aerospace Engineering: After completing his education, Kalam joined the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and later the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His contributions to the development of India’s missile systems, particularly the Agni and Prithvi missiles, established him as a leading scientist in the field of aerospace engineering.

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The narrative delves into the challenges faced by Kalam and his team during the missile development programs, including technological hurdles, financial constraints, and international pressures. Despite setbacks, Kalam’s perseverance and leadership skills played a crucial role in the success of these projects.

Presidency and Beyond: The book also covers Kalam’s tenure as the President of India from 2002 to 2007. It explores his vision for the nation, his interactions with people from various walks of life, and his efforts to inspire the youth. Kalam’s presidency is marked by his emphasis on education, innovation, and the idea of transforming India into a developed nation by 2020. Wings of Fire Summary And Themes by Abdul Kalam

The narrative goes beyond Kalam’s presidency to capture his post-presidential life, where he continued to engage with students, educators, and professionals. Kalam’s commitment to nurturing scientific temper, creativity, and ethical leadership shines through as he shares anecdotes and experiences from his various roles.

Wings of Fire Themes:

• A recurring theme in “Wings of Fire” is the transformative power of education and knowledge. Kalam’s journey from a small town to the corridors of prestigious institutions underscores the importance of education in shaping an individual’s destiny.
• Kalam’s life is a testament to resilience and perseverance. From facing financial challenges to overcoming technical obstacles in missile development, Kalam’s unwavering commitment to his goals serves as an inspiration.
• The book emphasizes the significance of effective leadership and teamwork in achieving ambitious goals. Kalam’s leadership style, marked by inclusivity and collaboration, played a crucial role in the success of India’s missile programs.
• Kalam’s deep sense of patriotism and commitment to national service is a central theme. His dedication to advancing India’s technological capabilities, particularly in defense and space, reflects a profound love for the country.
• The narrative celebrates the spirit of scientific inquiry and innovation. Kalam’s contributions to missile technology highlight the importance of pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and fostering a culture of innovation.
• Throughout the book, Kalam emphasizes the importance of ethical leadership. His commitment to integrity, honesty, and moral values serves as a guiding principle in both personal and professional spheres.
• An overarching theme is Kalam’s dedication to empowering the youth. He envisions a future where young minds contribute to the nation’s progress through education, innovation, and ethical leadership.
• Kalam’s vision for India as a developed nation by 2020 is a driving force in the narrative. The book explores his ideas for achieving this vision, encompassing technological advancements, education reform, and societal transformation.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s “Wings of Fire” is more than just an autobiography; it’s a journey through the life of a visionary leader who profoundly influenced Indian politics and science. The book ends on a positive note and issues a challenge to the next generation of leaders to further the advancement of their country. The life story of Abdul Kalam is a tribute to the enduring spirit of patriotism, the transformative power of education, and the significance of resilience and moral leadership. Wings of Fire Summary And Themes by Abdul Kalam

The narrative takes readers on a compelling journey—from Kalam’s humble beginnings in Rameswaram to his pivotal role in India’s missile programs and ultimately to the presidency. The themes of education, perseverance, leadership, and national service are interwoven, creating a narrative that inspires readers to strive for excellence and contribute to the betterment of society.Wings of Fire Summary by Abdul Kalam, What is the summary of the Wings of Fire by APJ Abdul Kalam?, What is the main theme of Wings of Fire?, Who is the main character in Wings of Fire?,

Kalam’s vision for a developed India by 2020, as outlined in the book, remains a guiding light for many, encouraging individuals to embrace innovation, scientific inquiry, and a strong ethical foundation. The book’s conclusion leaves readers with a sense of responsibility and a belief in the power of individuals to shape their destinies and contribute to the progress of their nation.

1. What is the main message of “Wings of Fire”?

The main message of “Wings of Fire” revolves around the transformative power of education, resilience in the face of challenges, ethical leadership, and a deep sense of patriotism. Abdul Kalam’s life story serves as an inspiration for readers to pursue excellence and contribute to the progress of their nation.

2. How does “Wings of Fire” inspire the youth?

The book inspires the youth by highlighting Abdul Kalam’s journey from a modest background to becoming a renowned scientist and the President of India. Kalam’s emphasis on education, innovation, and ethical leadership encourages young readers to aspire to greatness and contribute positively to society.

3. What role does education play in the book?

Education is a central theme in “Wings of Fire.” Kalam’s life is shaped by his passion for learning, and he emphasizes the transformative impact of education on individuals and the nation. The book underscores the importance of education in unlocking human potential and driving societal progress.

4. How does Abdul Kalam view leadership?

Abdul Kalam views leadership as a collaborative and ethical endeavor. Throughout the book, he emphasizes the importance of inclusive leadership, teamwork, and integrity. Kalam’s leadership style, marked by humility and a commitment to service, serves as a model for aspiring leaders.

5. What is Kalam’s vision for India in “Wings of Fire”?

Kalam envisions India as a developed nation by 2020. His vision encompasses advancements in technology, education reform, and societal transformation. The book outlines Kalam’s ideas for achieving this vision and calls on the youth to actively contribute to the nation’s progress.

6. How does Abdul Kalam’s background influence his perspective?

Abdul Kalam’s humble background in Rameswaram and his upbringing in a close-knit family deeply influence his perspective. The values of honesty, hard work, and compassion instilled by his parents shape his character and contribute to his commitment to service and nation-building.

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Book Review: Wings of Fire by APJ Abdul Kalam

Introduction.

APJ Abdul Kalam is a renowned Indian scientist who went on to become 11th President of India (2002-2007). He is very well known across India and is a recipient of India’s three highest civilian awards – Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna. Wings of Fire is an autobiography of APJ Abdul Kalam written jointly by Arun Tiwari and Abdul Kalam. It covers Kalam’s life before he became president of India and in 2013 another autobiography titled "My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions" was released.

Wings of Fire is an autography of APJ Abdul Kalam covering his early life and his work in Indian space research and missile programs. It is the story of a boy from a humble background who went on to become a key player in Indian space research/Indian missile programs and later became the president of India. The book has been very popular in India and has been translated into multiple languages. I recently picked up a copy and read it in a couple of days. It was very engaging initially, but tended to drag a bit towards the end with lot of technical details and procedural information of his space research and missile projects.

I loved the initial chapters of Wings of Fire since it gives a vivid picture of our country during 1930 – 1950s. Kalam was born in Rameswaram, a southern religious town in Tamilnadu. The initial chapters provides an interesting glimpse of religious harmony which existed before India’s partition,

The famous Shiva temple, which made Rameswaram so sacred to pilgrims , was about a ten-minute walk from our house. Our locality was predominantly Muslim, but there were quite a few Hindu families too, living amicably with their Muslim neighbours. …… The high priest of Rameswaram temple, Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry, was a very close friend of my father’s. One of the most vivid memories of my early childhood is of the two men, each in his traditional attire, discussing spiritual matters. …… One day when I was in the fifth standard at the Rameswaram Elementary School, a new teacher came to our class. I used to wear a cap which marked me as a Muslim, and I always sat in the front row next to Ramanadha Sastry, who wore a sacred thread. The new teacher could not stomach a Hindu priest’s son sitting with a Muslim boy. In accordance with our social ranking as the new teacher saw it, I was asked to go and sit on the back bench. I felt very sad, and so did Ramanadha Sastry. He looked utterly downcast as I shifted to my seat in the last row. The image of him weeping when I shifted to the last row left a lasting impression on me. After school , we went home and told our respective parents about the incident. Lakshmana Sastry summoned the teacher, and in our presence , told the teacher that he should not spread the poison of social inequality and communal intolerance in the minds of innocent children. He bluntly asked the teacher to either apologize or quit the school and the island. Not only did the teacher regret his behaviour, but the strong sense of conviction Lakshmana Sastry conveyed ultimately reformed this young teacher.

Kalam in younger years wanted to be an officer in air force, however he couldn’t clear the interview. He met Swami Sivananda after this failure and I found his words to Kalam interesting and in a way prophetic,

Accept your destiny and go ahead with your life. You are not destined to become an Air Force pilot. What you are destined to become is not revealed now but it is predetermined. Forget this failure, as it was essential to lead you to your destined path. Search, instead, for the true purpose of your existence. Become one with yourself, my son! Surrender yourself to the wish of God,

Here, I saw a painting prominently displayed in the reception lobby. It depicted a battle scene with a few rockets flying in the background. A painting with this theme should be the most commonplace thing at a Flight Facility, but the painting caught my eye because the soldiers on the side launching the rockets were not white , but dark-skinned, with the racial features of people found in South Asia. One day, my curiosity got the better of me, drawing me towards the painting. It turned out to be Tipu Sultan’s army fighting the British. The painting depicted a fact forgotten in Tipu’s own country but commemorated here on the other side of the planet. I was happy to see an Indian glorified by NASA as a hero of warfare rocketry.

The book covers a lot of "behind the scene" information and technical details about India’s satellite and missile program (SLV-3, Prithvi, Agni, Thrisul, Akash and Nag). This might interest technically inclined readers but is sure to put off readers who bought the book to get to know Kalam or to know his principles/ideas. Space and missile programs are huge complex projects and managing them is extremely challenging. The book does give a glimpse of the participatory management technique adopted by Kalam, but at the same time it doesn’t go into details.

Wings of fire covers Kalam’s personal life only briefly which is strange for an autobiography. For example, we don’t know why he decided to remain single or his activities outside space research (even though we can conclude in the end that he was married to science and technology).

Kalam is a poet and is a huge fan of poems. The book contains many of his own poems and his favorite poems. 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.

Through Wings of Fire, we come across some brilliant people who worked behind Indian space research  such as Vikram Sarabhai and Dr. Brahm Prakash. The book also contains about 24 photos and I found the ones from the early days of Indian space program very interesting. This alone is worth the price of the book!

One of the things that stands out throughout the book is Kalam’s positive thinking. He held many high ranking positions in various organizations. Yet in the book he rarely mentions anything about lethargy/corruption of bureaucracy or politicians. The secret to his success seems to be his ability to ignore negative things around him. The book also gives a clue to his popularity in India. Kalam is a simple, secular, inspiring humanitarian.

My Rating: 7/10. I liked the initial chapters, but wasn’t much impressed by later chapters. Kalam should look for a better writer to write his updated autobiography (After I wrote this review I realized that he has released a new autobiography titled "My Journey: Transforming Dreams into Actions").

Online Resources

• Some rare photographs of APJ Abdul Kalam
• Tipu Sultan’s rockets
• Quotes by APJ Abdul Kalam

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APJ Abdul Kalam: Life Lessons from "Wings of Fire"

Abdul Kalam was a prominent scientist from India. He was a professor and the chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology. In addition, he served as India's 11th President from 2002 to 2007. He was generally known as the People's President throughout his presidency.

The book "Wings of Fire" by Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam (abbreviated A.P.J Abdul Kalam) is an excellent masterpiece. He had faced many challenges, and he discussed how he overcome them utilising various strategies and motives in this book. The reader gets a picture of pre-partition India through this autobiography. Kalam also introduces readers to the positive thinking and principles that aided his achievement. This is the story of Kalam's ascension out of obscurity, as well as his personal and professional hardships. It's also the story of independent India's quest for scientific independence and defence autonomy.

It also includes moral principles that we should follow in our daily lives. It appeals to both scholarly and non-academic audiences. Orientation, Creation, Propitiation, and Contemplation are the four sections of Wings of Fire. These split sections make it easier for the reader to understand the material.

While it provides a realistic representation of Rameswaram, it also depicts the developing nation. It is a detailed description of Kalam's rise. Simultaneously, the AGNI, TRISHUL, and NAG missiles have become household names in India. These missiles have allowed India to gain international recognition. The autobiography inspires us to believe in the power of dreams, hope, and belief. Dr. Kalam explains how, with determination and persistence, anyone can accomplish anything. As a result of reading the Wings

This book provides an important lesson in learning from the mistakes of Indian space and rocket infrastructure programmes. A good presentation of the involvement of other notable scientists in shaping the future of our country. This book is jam-packed with knowledge and is a must-read for any student because it has the impact and power to drive a person to succeed in life. "Wings of Fire" is a one-of-a-kind model for achieving one's goals while keeping one's vow to one's country.

5 Life Lessons from the Book " Wings of Fire'

Total commitment is not just hard work.

Commitment does not imply working 24 hours a day, working without direction, or simply performing the work that has been assigned to you. Commitment is the act of devoting your entire soul to a task. Total engagement means that your focus should be solely on your work and nothing else. Total engagement entails completing the work well.

We are all born with a divine fire in us

Each individual possesses incredible potential inside himself. Once we recognise our power, we must not let it go to waste. We should take measures towards reaching our goals by believing that we have the ability and capability to do so. We must maintain that fire blazing in our hearts and allow it to guide us.

Naturally, major opportunities are accompanied by equally major challenges

The bigger your dream, the harder you'll have to work, and the more difficult the challenges you'll face along the way. And it will be a fruitless assumption to hope to achieve anything spectacular with mediocre efforts. There is a basic rule that if you want to reach high heights in your life, you must be prepared to confront many huge trials.

Problems are a part of life; suffering is the essence of success

Every day of the year is not the same. Everyone experiences ups and downs in their lives, especially when pursuing their aspirations. These difficulties, however, do not stand in your way. They come to teach you lessons and make you stronger than you were before. Sufferings may appear unpleasant; nonetheless, we should welcome them in the same way that we welcome pleasure because we cannot appreciate achievement until we have experienced pain.

A big shot is nothing but a little shot that keeps on shooting

A huge shot is simply a small shot that continues to fire. We are frequently overwhelmed by the idea of perfection or a sudden dramatic change in our lives. But, to achieve the goal, we must put it into action every day. We will not achieve success overnight. It takes time, and our responsibility is to complete our assigned tasks daily because success is a succession of modest victories.

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Wings of Fire PDF

Wings of Fire Book

Wings of Fire Book is an Autobiography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam (1999), former President of India. It was written by Dr. Kalam to examine his early life, effort, hardship, fortitude, luck, and a chance that eventually led him to lead Indian space research, nuclear and missile programs.

Kalam started his career, after graduating from Aerospace engineering at MIT (Chennai), India, at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and was assigned to build a hovercraft prototype. Later he moved to ISRO and helped establish the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and pioneered the first space launch vehicle program.

Wings of Fire Book (Autobiography)

Wings of Fire, APJ Abdul Kalam’s autobiography, discusses his early years as well as his involvement with the missile and space development programs in India. It relates the story of a young child from a low-income household who worked his way up through the Indian space research and missile programs to become the president of the nation.

Beginning with his birth into a Tamil middle-class family in Rameswaram, India, the book focuses on Abdul Kalam’s early years. Owning a boat was a show of prosperity for his father in the neighborhood. Rameswaram was the perfect place to raise a family since it was a close-knit community where everyone assisted one another.

For more details download the Wings of Fire – Autobiography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam in PDF format using the link given below.

You May Also Like – Agni Ki Udaan Book by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam (Autobiography) Volume 1 PDF in Hindi – Agni Ki Udaan Book Part 2 PDF in Hindi

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this book Wings of Fire is best biography book ever

it is so good

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APJ Abdul Kalam With Arun Tiwari Wings Of Fire An Autobiography Of APJ Abdul Kalam ( 1999)

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A.P.J.Abdul Kalam - his quotes and poems from his book Wings of Fire.

This is a small attempt to see him as a poet and presents his own quotes and describes how he enjoyed the poetic lines and quotes of others in all walks of his life to share his happiness, emotions, sorrows, depressive mood etc., The quotes are from his own experience shared by his near and dears and also many of his reading books.

Introduction

Khalil gibran, related to his near and dear ones, quotes at the time of success as well as failures, at the time of receiving great awards, his writing during his visits, he is writing the quote of him as.

What a great and positive thinking Dr Kalam sir had. He is immortal in every Indian's heart. A salute to him with great respect.

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DR. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam FORMER PRESIDENT OF INDIA Term of Office: 25th July 2002 - 25th July 2007

Former President Of India

Dr. a.p.j. abdul kalam.

Born on 15th October 1931 at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, Dr. Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, specialized in Aeronautical Engineering from Madras Institute of Technology. Dr. Kalam made significant contribution as Project Director to develop India's first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-III) which successfully injected the Rohini satellite in the near earth orbit in July 1980 and made India an exclusive member of Space Club.

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• 24 Jul 07 Thanks Giving Address to the Nation
• 21 Jul 07 Address to the Rashtrapati Bhavan Community, Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi
• 19 Jul 07 Address to the Members of India Islamic Cultural Centre, New Delhi
• 18 Jul 07 Address During the Presentation of the Air India National Rank and Bolt Awards for the Year 2006-07 to…

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