The definitive biography of India's most loved leader and scientist

Aeronautical engineer, rocket scientist, missile man, visionary, teacher and the most inspiring head of state in living memory - Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was all these and more. Unquestionably the most revered Indian leader since Mahatma Gandhi, he transcended all the boundaries and obstacles that came his way in the course of a remarkable life; and he did so with grace and humility. Arun Tiwari tells Dr Kalam's life story with a deep understanding of his formative experiences and character. He charts Dr Kalam's stratospheric rise to prominence - as dramatic as the missiles he championed - giving us unique glimpses into his struggle and tribulations.
With the benefit of thirty-three years as Dr Kalam's 'subordinate scientist, co-author, speechwriter and friend', Arun Tiwari captures the essence of Kalam - his influences, his ascetic habits and his passions that fuelled his remarkable life and achievements. Dr Kalam was a man whose expansive soul could combine ardent patriotism with a love of humanity, and rigorous discipline with gentleness and sensitivity that is almost unparalleled in public life.
This authoritative portrait of Dr Kalam, enriched by personal experiences and anecdotes, reveals him as a man personifying all the glory and paradoxes of his nation: secular and religious; exalted and humble; schooled and unaffected; dynamic and calm; scientific and spiritual - an Indian above all.