SALUTE TO DR KALAM

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While returning from the morning walk I found that in the nearby auto stand there were drivers readying a stool with garland and a large framed photo of Dr. Kalam. When I asked what it is, I got a reply "we have to be like him" and hence this memorial he said. This summarizes what Dr. Kalam stood for. Simplicity in public life with stupendous achievement without the pompous normally attached with it and making the most common man speak about it.


I have heard of Dr. Kalam from a couple of scientists and colleagues and have known the benefit the country got by his deeds. Yet it was a joy when the man in the street acknowledged his value and conveyed his respect. 


Last year when Dr. Kalam expired I was on a flight from Hyderabad to Chennai and the elite in the flight expressed as much awe for the man and sorrow for his death. As I landed at Chennai and was on my way back home I saw so many shops/establishments closed with huge posters of Dr. Kalam with a heading "Our Tearful Homage". All these posters were put up by shopkeepers and street vendors.


Such spontaneous and genuine 'bandh' by people spoke of the authentic and indisputable regard that people from all walks of life had for a man who used his entire knowledge and wisdom for the nation and also remained a simple and honest man in his deeds. Who can forget his paying train ticket for people from his village to witness his swearing in as President of the nation and his standing in queue like a commoner for voting?


Basically a scientist, his winning respect from many other respectable groups made him popular with the man in the street as well by his sheer and genuine simplicity. On the day of his last rites, many institutions that crib to declare holiday for general elections declared holiday on their own. It not only reflected his popularity but also the respect. Since Padma awards are too small for his stature the nation honored itself by conferring "Bharat Ratna" on him.


Another occasion when the whole nation was one on the decision of the Government was, the day Dr. Kalam was declared as a Presidential Candidate by the ruling party. A leader acceptable widely and readily and loved for his simplicity and respected for his knowledge, wisdom and contribution to the nation was Dr. Kalam.


On his first death anniversary all can pray for His Soul to rest in peace and wish for many more persons of his caliber and character for the nation.

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