About Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
- Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was the former President of India and a distinguished scientist known for his significant contributions to space research.
- He was born on October 15, 1931, in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu.
- He specialized in Aeronautical Engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology and later became a Professor of Technology and Societal Transformation at Anna University.
- His vision was to transform India into a developed nation by 2020.
- He was fondly called the "People's President" and the "Missile Man of India." Dr. Kalam dedicated his life to inspiring youth and believed in their potential to change the world.
Summary I WILL FLY
Dr. Kalam shares an inspiring message about self-confidence and being unique. He recounts visiting a village for the inauguration of Sasthrayaan, a program to prepare two thousand students for careers in science and engineering. During a question session, a nervous village boy asked how he could overcome his lack of confidence and achieve his dream of becoming a marine engineer and ship captain. The boy admitted he was afraid to speak to teachers and friends and constantly compared himself to others. Dr. Kalam responded with the beautiful poem "I am born with wings" and explained that every young person is born with potential, goodness, ideas, and greatness. He emphasized that youth must fight to remain unique in a world that constantly pressures them to become like everyone else. The key message is that every person is born with wings and is meant to fly, not crawl.
Summary in Malayalam
ആത്മവിശ്വാസത്തെയും അതുല്യതയെയും കുറിച്ചുള്ള പ്രചോദനാത്മകമായ സന്ദേശം ഡോ. കലാം പങ്കുവയ്ക്കുന്നു. ശാസ്ത്രത്തിലും എഞ്ചിനീയറിംഗിലും കരിയർ തയ്യാറാക്കുന്നതിനായി രണ്ടായിരം വിദ്യാർത്ഥികളെ സജ്ജമാക്കുന്ന ശാസ്ത്രയാൻ എന്ന പരിപാടിയുടെ ഉദ്ഘാടനത്തിനായി അദ്ദേഹം ഒരു ഗ്രാമം സന്ദർശിച്ച അനുഭവം വിവരിക്കുന്നു. ചോദ്യോത്തര സമയത്ത്, പരിഭ്രാന്തനായ ഒരു ഗ്രാമീണ കുട്ടി ആത്മവിശ്വാസമില്ലായ്മ മറികടന്ന് മറൈൻ എഞ്ചിനീയർ, കപ്പൽ ക്യാപ്റ്റൻ എന്നീ സ്വപ്നങ്ങൾ നേടാൻ എങ്ങനെയെന്ന് ചോദിച്ചു. അധ്യാപകരോടും സുഹൃത്തുക്കളോടും സംസാരിക്കാൻ ഭയപ്പെടുന്നുവെന്നും മറ്റുള്ളവരുമായി സ്വയം താരതമ്യം ചെയ്യുന്നുവെന്നും അവൻ സമ്മതിച്ചു. "ഞാൻ ചിറകുകളുമായി ജനിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു" എന്ന മനോഹരമായ കവിതയോടെ ഡോ. കലാം പ്രതികരിച്ചു. എല്ലാ യുവാക്കളും സാധ്യതകളോടും നന്മയോടും ആശയങ്ങളോടും മഹത്വത്തോടും കൂടി ജനിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നുവെന്ന് അദ്ദേഹം ഊന്നിപ്പറഞ്ഞു. എല്ലാവരെയും പോലെ ആകാൻ നിരന്തരം സമ്മർദ്ദം ചെലുത്തുന്ന ലോകത്ത് അതുല്യരായി നിലനിൽക്കാൻ യുവാക്കൾ പോരാടണമെന്ന് അദ്ദേഹം വിശദീകരിച്ചു. പ്രധാന സന്ദേശം: ഓരോ വ്യക്തിയും ചിറകുകളുമായാണ് ജനിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നത്, ഇഴയാനല്ല പറക്കാനാണ് ഉദ്ദേശിക്കപ്പെട്ടിരിക്കുന്നത്.
Main Theme
The central theme of this piece is self-belief, uniqueness, and the unlimited potential within every young person. Dr. Kalam emphasizes that youth should not fear the future because they possess an "ignited mind" - the most powerful resource. The text explores how societal pressures try to make everyone conform, but true success comes from fighting to remain unique. It encourages young people to recognize their inherent greatness and pursue their dreams with confidence.
Answers to Questions
Why does Dr. Kalam say that 'No youth needs to fear about the future'?
Dr. Kalam believes no youth needs to fear the future because "the ignited mind of the youth is the most powerful resource on the earth, under the earth, and above the earth." Young people possess unlimited potential, creativity, and energy. When their minds are ignited with passion and purpose, they can overcome any challenge and create a better future. The youth have the power to transform themselves and the world around them.
What was the mission of 'Sasthrayaan'?
Sasthrayaan means "the propagation of Science." Its mission was to prepare about two thousand students from different schools to become eligible for careers as engineers, scientists, doctors, qualified managers, and civil servants. This preparation would empower approximately two thousand families in the village by providing their children with quality education and career opportunities in science and technology fields.
Dr. Kalam's talk was on the topic 'Science Empowers the Nation.' How does science empower the nation?
Science empowers the nation in several ways:
It provides knowledge and skills that lead to technological advancement and innovation.
It creates opportunities for youth to become engineers, scientists, and doctors who contribute to national development.
Scientific education empowers families and communities by improving their economic conditions.
It helps the nation become self-reliant and competitive in the global arena.
Science-driven development leads to better healthcare, infrastructure, communication, and quality of life for citizens.
It builds a strong foundation for economic growth and national progress.
What was the boy's concern?
The boy had multiple interconnected concerns:
He lacked confidence and had never asked questions in class during all his years of education.
He was afraid to talk to his teachers and friends.
He constantly compared himself with other students and their elegant dress, which made him feel inferior.
Despite having clear dreams of becoming a marine engineer, traveling in a ship, being a captain, and building ship engines, he was uncertain whether he could achieve these goals.
He wanted to know how to gain confidence and accomplish his mission in life.
Why did the audience look at Dr. Kalam when the boy completed the question?
The audience looked at Dr. Kalam wondering what he would say because the boy's question was deeply sincere and touched upon a universal problem faced by many young people. The question revealed vulnerability, fear, and lack of confidence - issues that resonated with much of the audience. Even the dignitaries on the dais, including the Chief Minister, were curious about how Dr. Kalam would respond to such an honest and heartfelt question from a simple village boy. The question was not about science or technology but about the fundamental human challenge of self-belief.
Why did Dr. Kalam value the boy's question?
Dr. Kalam valued the boy's question because:
It was the most difficult question among millions he had received from students.
The boy was echoing the fear of many young people who lack confidence.
The question was sincere, honest, and came from the heart.
It addressed a fundamental issue that affects youth across the country.
The boy had the courage to admit his weaknesses publicly, which showed self-awareness.
The question gave Dr. Kalam an opportunity to address a crucial topic that could help not just one boy but thousands of young people facing similar challenges.
How can you be unique?
According to Dr. Kalam, you can be unique by:
Fighting the hardest battle that any human being can imagine - the battle to remain yourself.
Refusing to conform to what others expect you to be.
Not trying to become like your neighbors' children, the class toppers, or anybody else.
Recognizing that you are born with potential, goodness, trust, ideas, dreams, greatness, confidence, and wings.
Never stopping the fight until you arrive at your destined place - a UNIQUE YOU.
Understanding that the world will constantly try to make you "everybody else," but you must resist this pressure.
Believing in your inherent worth and capabilities rather than constantly comparing yourself to others.
Why couldn't the boy gather confidence?
The boy couldn't gather confidence because:
He had not developed self-belief through his education over the years.
He constantly compared himself with other students, especially their elegant dress and appearance.
He had never practiced asking questions or speaking up in class.
Fear had become a habit - fear of talking to teachers, fear of talking to friends.
He focused on his perceived inadequacies rather than his strengths.
The education system had not empowered him with confidence-building skills.
He measured his worth against external factors (others' appearances, achievements) rather than recognizing his own inherent value.
If you were there, would you dare to ask Dr. Kalam a question?
This is a personal reflection question. A sample answer could be:
Yes, I would dare to ask Dr. Kalam a question, especially after hearing his response to the nervous boy. His warmth, understanding, and encouraging nature would give me confidence. I would ask him about how to balance dreams with practical realities, or how to stay motivated when facing repeated failures. Dr. Kalam's approachable personality and genuine concern for youth would make me feel comfortable expressing my thoughts and doubts.
Or alternatively:
Initially, I might feel nervous like the village boy, but his courageous example would inspire me. Seeing how Dr. Kalam valued even the most difficult questions and treated every student with respect would encourage me to overcome my hesitation and ask something meaningful.
Activity I: Think and Respond
Are you confident enough to ask questions or express your views in public?
Personal answer - students should reflect on their own experiences. Sample response:
I am gradually building my confidence to speak in public. While I sometimes feel nervous, I realize that asking questions is important for learning. Like the boy in the story, I need to practice speaking up more often. Each time I ask a question or share my view, I become a little more confident.
Have you ever felt inferior to others in any way?
Personal answer. Sample response:
Yes, sometimes I feel inferior when I see classmates who are better at sports or academics than me. I also sometimes compare myself to others who have better resources or opportunities. However, Dr. Kalam's message helps me understand that everyone is born with unique potential, and comparison only holds me back from discovering my own strengths.
How can you overcome your fear or inhibition?
Based on the text and general understanding:
Practice speaking regularly, starting with small groups.
Remember that everyone is born with wings and potential.
Stop comparing yourself to others and focus on your own growth.
Understand that making mistakes is part of learning.
Build confidence gradually through small achievements.
Remind yourself of the poem "I am born with wings" when feeling afraid.
Seek support from teachers, friends, and family.
Focus on your dreams and goals rather than on your fears.
What is your ambition in life?
Personal answer. Students should write their own ambitions, whether it's becoming a doctor, engineer, teacher, artist, scientist, entrepreneur, or any other profession they aspire to.
Are you confident that you can fulfill your dream?
Personal answer. Sample response:
Yes, I am confident that with hard work, determination, and the right guidance, I can fulfill my dream. Dr. Kalam's message reminds me that I am born with potential and greatness. While the journey may be challenging, I believe in my ability to learn, grow, and eventually achieve my goals. I understand that I need to fight to remain unique and not give up despite obstacles.
How do you think you can attain your goal?
Personal answer based on individual goals. General response:
Through dedicated study and skill development.
By seeking guidance from mentors and teachers.
Setting clear, achievable milestones along the way.
Staying focused and not comparing myself to others.
Working on building confidence and overcoming fears.
Learning from failures and persisting through challenges.
Maintaining belief in myself and my unique capabilities.
The Poem: "I Am Born With Wings"
Analysis of the poem:
I am born with potential - Every person has unlimited possibilities within them.
I am born with goodness and trust - Inherent positive qualities exist in everyone.
I am born with ideas and dreams - Creativity and vision are natural gifts.
I am born with greatness - Each person has something magnificent within them.
I am born with confidence - Self-belief is an inborn quality that needs to be awakened.
I am born with wings - Everyone has the ability to soar high and achieve great things.
So, I am not meant for crawling - We should not limit ourselves or accept mediocrity.
I have wings, I will fly, I will fly and fly - Emphasis on the determination to rise above limitations and achieve one's full potential.
The poem's message: The poem emphasizes that human beings are born with extraordinary capabilities. We are not meant to live small, limited lives but to soar to great heights. The metaphor of wings represents our potential, dreams, and abilities that allow us to transcend ordinary existence.
Key Messages from Dr. Kalam
On Youth and Future:
The ignited mind of youth is the most powerful resource.
No young person needs to fear the future because they possess unlimited potential.
On Confidence:
Confidence is something you are born with but needs to be awakened and developed.
Education should empower students with confidence, not just information.
On Uniqueness:
Every youth wants to be unique, but the world pressures them to conform.
Being unique requires fighting the hardest battle against social expectations.
Parents, teachers, and society constantly ask you to be like someone else.
True success comes from arriving at "a UNIQUE YOU."
On Overcoming Fear:
Fear and lack of confidence come from constant comparison with others.
Focusing on material things like elegant dress creates inferiority complex.
The solution is to recognize your inherent worth and potential.
On Dreams:
Having clear dreams and goals is important (like the boy wanting to be a marine engineer).
Dreams give direction and purpose to life.
With confidence and determination, dreams can be achieved.
Life Lessons
Believe in your inherent worth: You are born with greatness, not inadequacy.
Stop comparing yourself to others: Comparison is the thief of joy and confidence.
Practice speaking up: Confidence grows through practice and experience.
Focus on your dreams: Clear goals give you direction and motivation.
Fight to be unique: Don't let the world make you into everybody else.
Seek empowerment through education: Education should build confidence, not just knowledge.
Overcome fear gradually: Start small and build your courage step by step.
Remember you have wings: You are meant to fly, not crawl.
Activity II: Speech for Class X Students
Sample Speech Outline:
Dear Class X students,
As you prepare for your public examinations, I want to share Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's inspiring message with you.
Remember that you are born with potential, goodness, ideas, dreams, greatness, confidence, and wings. These examinations are just one step in your journey, not the destination.
Do not compare yourself with other students or their scores. Your uniqueness is your strength. Focus on your own preparation and growth.
Build confidence by practicing regularly, asking questions when in doubt, and believing in your capabilities. The ignited mind of youth is the most powerful resource.
Face your examinations without fear. You are not meant for crawling - you have wings, and you will fly. Work hard, stay focused, and trust in yourself.
Your dreams are valid. This examination is an opportunity to move closer to your goals. Approach it with confidence and determination.
I wish you all the very best. Remember, you are unique, and you are born to succeed.
Activity III: E-mail to Friend
Sample E-mail:
Subject: Inspired by Dr. Kalam's Message
Dear [Friend's Name],
I hope you're doing well in your studies abroad. I wanted to share something that deeply inspired me recently.
I read Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's message "I Will Fly," and it completely changed my perspective on life. He spoke about how every young person is born with wings, potential, and greatness, but the world constantly tries to make us conform and become like everyone else.
What struck me most was his emphasis on being unique. I realized I've been comparing myself to others too much, worrying about things that don't really matter. His poem "I am born with wings" reminded me that I'm not meant for crawling - I'm meant to fly.
I'm now more confident about pursuing my dreams. Instead of fearing the future, I'm embracing it with the belief that my ignited mind can overcome any challenge.
How are things with you? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this message and how your experiences abroad have shaped your confidence.
Stay unique and keep flying!
Warm regards, [Your Name]