Kalam ji is my 'marg darshak', as well as that of every child, says PM Narendra Modi

New Delhi, July 29: India's most loved and admired "people's (former) president", Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, left for heavenly abode on Monday, July 27, when he collapsed while delivering a lecture at the IIM-Shillong in Meghalaya.

His passing away not only plunged the entire nation into a shocked state, but the world leaders too mourned his sudden demise.

Rich tributes were paid to the late "Missile Man of India", as hordes of people gathered to pay last homage to the former president. [PM Modi condoles Dr Abdul Kalam's death, describes him as 'marg darshak']

In an editorial at the TOI, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a moving tribute to Dr Kalam on Wednesday, July 29.

He described Dr Kalam as a "RATNA" (precious stone), that BHARAT (India) lost.

Modi wrote, "Bharat has lost a Ratna, but the light from this jewel will guide us towards A P J Abdul Kalam's dream destination."

In the blog, he addressed Kalam as "a hero of our defence programme" and asserted that his "profound idealism was secure because it rested on a foundation of realism".

PM Modi also mentioned how Kalam, who rose from humble beginnings, made a mark, with his wealth of knowledge and countered poverty.

Modi wrote that how a boy who once sold newspapers to earn money to fund his studies, was glorified by all the newspapers, on his demise.

Calling Kalamji "a role model for anybody", Modi wrote, "He is my marg darshak, as well as that of every such child."

Modi also emphasised that his character, commitment and inspirational vision shine through his life.

PM said that Kalam had a unique quality of adapting himself with the honesty of a child, with the energy of a teenager and the maturity of an adult.

Modi, further said, "Kalam epitomised the three great virtues of our civilisation: dama, self-restraint; dana, sacrifice; and daya, compassion."

Talking about Kalam's vision for the nation, Modi said "it was anchored in freedom, development and strength."

Modi also praised Kalam's contributions to our nuclear and space achievements, that have given India the muscle to be confident of her place in the region and the world.

"We should learn to look at our world through his eyes, and with the same missionary zeal", Modi said.

Modi further added, "He saw the future, and showed the way. As I entered the room where his body lay in state yesterday, I noticed the painting at the entrance that depicted a few lines from an inspirational book he wrote for children, Ignited Minds."

83-year-old Dr Kalam, who occupied Rashtrapati Bhavan in 2002-07, breathed his last at 7.45 pm at the Bethany Hospital where he was rushed to, from the IIM where he was delivering a lecture on "liveable planet".

OneIndia News