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Chapter 1 of Wings of Fire, titled "Orientation" - Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Introduction to A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Wings of Fire


    Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (1931–2015) was an Indian scientist, aerospace engineer, and the 11th President of India (2002–2007). Known as the "Missile Man of India," he played a key role in India's space and missile development programs. Born in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to a humble family, Kalam rose to greatness through hard work, perseverance, and a passion for science. Despite facing financial struggles, he pursued education and later contributed to India's nuclear and defense advancements, making him one of the most respected leaders in the country.

    His autobiography, Wings of Fire, co-written with Arun Tiwari, was published in 1999. The book details Kalam’s early life, education, career in science, and his contributions to India's missile and space programs. It also shares the values and experiences that shaped him, including discipline, spirituality, and patriotism. The book serves as an inspiration for young readers, encouraging them to dream big, work hard, and stay dedicated to their goals. Wings of Fire remains one of the most influential autobiographies in India, reflecting Kalam’s humility, vision, and unwavering dedication to the nation.

Summary

Chapter 1 of Wings of Fire, titled "Orientation", provides a deep insight into Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s childhood, family, and the influences that shaped his character. 

Early Life and Family Background





Born in 1931 in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, Kalam belonged to a middle-class Tamil Muslim family. His father, Jainulabdeen, was a devout man with no formal education or wealth but possessed great wisdom and generosity. His mother, Ashiamma, was known for her kindness and hospitality, feeding many people daily. Kalam’s ancestral home was a large house built in the 19th century on Mosque Street. Their locality, though predominantly Muslim, also had Hindu families, living in harmony. The famous Shiva temple of Rameswaram was just ten minutes away, and Kalam often accompanied his father to the local mosque for evening prayers.


Spirituality 

Kalam’s father had a deep spiritual outlook. His close friend, Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry, the high priest of the Rameswaram temple, often discussed religious and spiritual matters with him, emphasizing unity and harmony among faiths. 

Influences


Kalam’s brother-in-law, Ahmed Jalaluddin, and cousin, Samsuddin, played crucial roles in shaping his early years. Jalaluddin, whom Kalam called Azad, introduced him to books from the STR Manickam Library and spoke to him about the outside world, science, and achievements of educated people. Samsuddin, a newspaper distributor, gave Kalam his first job, teaching him the value of money and hard work. During World War II, Kalam helped deliver newspapers after train stops were cancelled due to war conditions, earning his first wages, which filled him with pride.

Friends & School Life

Kalam’s school life was also significant in shaping his views. He had three close friends—Ramanadha Sastry (son of Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry), Aravindhan, and Sivaprakasan—all from Brahmin families. One day, a new teacher asked Kalam to sit at the back because he was a Muslim, but Ramanadha Sastry’s father, Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry, confronted the teacher and demanded an apology, ensuring that social discrimination would not be tolerated. This incident left a deep impression on Kalam about equality and justice. 

Role of Shivasubramania Iyer

Another great influence was Shivasubramania Iyer, his science teacher, who encouraged him to break social barriers and develop himself. Iyer invited Kalam to his home for a meal, but his conservative wife refused to serve him. However, Iyer personally served Kalam and later convinced his wife to accept Kalam, demonstrating how change begins with strong convictions.

Higher Studies

Kalam’s journey took him away from Rameswaram when he joined Schwartz High School in Ramanathapuram. Though homesick, he remembered his father’s wisdom and Jalaluddin’s lessons on positive thinking, which helped him adapt. His father encouraged him to embrace new opportunities, quoting Khalil Gibran to assure Kalam’s mother that children must follow their own paths. Eventually, Kalam realized that his destiny was not in Rameswaram but far beyond, leading him toward his remarkable future.

This chapter highlights Kalam’s values of simplicity, discipline, equality, and hard work, which remained with him throughout his life, shaping him into India’s Missile Man and President.

Paragraph Questions

  1. Describe Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s early life and family background.

  2. How did spirituality and religious harmony influence Kalam’s upbringing?

  3. What role did Ahmed Jalaluddin and Samsuddin play in Kalam’s early life?

  4. Explain the incident with the new teacher at school and its impact on Kalam.

  5. How did Shivasubramania Iyer influence Kalam’s views on social barriers?

  6. Why did Kalam leave Rameswaram, and how did his father support his decision?

  7. What are the key values that Kalam learned from his early life experiences?

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