India, May 4 -- Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, more popularly known as APJ Abdul Kalam, is a rare man who needs no introduction in both the scientific and political circles of our country. Born in Tamil Nadu in 1931, Kalam studied physics and aerospace engineering and spent four decades as a scientist and science administrator at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Known as the Missile Man of India, Kalam was deeply involved with the civilian space programme and military missile development efforts of the country. In 2002, Kalam was elected as the president of India with the support of both the ruling party and the opposition. He was a man who was married to his wo...