APJ Abdul Kalam birth anniversary: Top quotes by the inspiring leader

On October 15, the world celebrates former India President and renowned scientist Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s birth anniversary. Abdul Kalam was India’s 11th President and is also fondly remembered as the ‘Missile Man’ and ‘People’s President’. Abdul Kalam who made India proud with his contribution in defence and space programmes was also an excellent orator and an inspiring teacher. Here are some of the top quotes by Dr Abdul Kalam:

His definition of Failure

“If you fail, never give up because fail means first attempt in learning”

The beauty that counts

“I am not handsome but I can give my hand to someone who needs help... because beauty is required in the heart, not in the face”

Dr Kalam's Success Mantra

"Thinking is the capital, enterprise is the way, hard work is the solution"

'My greatest honour'

"Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, calibre, and future of an individual. If the people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honour for me."

His famous quotes for students

"The best brains of the nation may be found on the last benches of the classroom."

"Climbing to the top demands strength, whether it is to the top of Mount Everest or to the top of your career."

"Let us sacrifice our today so that our children can have a better tomorrow."

World Students' Day

Every year, his birthday is celebrated as World Students' Day. The late leader was known for his love for students and focus on promoting education. To honour him, the United Nations declared his birthday as ‘World Students’ Day’ in 2010. At an event held in 2015 at Delhi Secretariat, he said he has been a teacher since the beginning of his career. Dr Kalam has influenced many lives with his positive personality and motivating approach to life, he has especially been an idol to many teachers and students alike.

READ | APJ Abdul Kalam: All you need to know on his birth anniversary

READ | ISRO chairman K Sivan honoured with APJ Abdul Kalam award by TN CM

Honoured with several awards

In 1981, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan and in 1990, the Padma Vibhushan. He was later honoured with India's highest civilian award 'Bharat Ratna' in 1997 for his contributions to research, the field of science as well as his work with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The great teacher, collapsed suddenly while delivering a lecture in July 2015, and then breathed his last on July 27, 2015.

READ | Remembering APJ Abdul Kalam: Fmr President envisioned reusable missiles, advised DRDO before passing

READ | Anand Bhaskar Rapolu proposes to declare Abdul Kalam's birthday as National Students Day