What do you learn from APJ Abdul Kalam’s autobiography

What do you learn from APJ Abdul Kalam’s autobiography? OR, What sign of great innate wisdom and true generosity of spirit do we find in Strong Roots’? Class 12 | English (Strong Roots) 6 Marks

Ans:

‘Strong Roots’ gives us insights into the factors that shaped the mind of the great personality, APJ Abdul Kalam.

He was greatly influenced by his spiritual father who taught him the values of leading a simple and disciplined life. Jainulabdeen made Kalam acquainted with the fundamental truths of life. Kalam admitted that all his life, he had tried to emulate his father in his field science and technology.

Kalam had imbibed the spirit of generosity by observing his mother, Ashiamma, feeding a large number of outsiders every day.

The locality, where Kalam grew up, had taught him religious tolerance because the Hindus and the Muslims lived there amicably. His father, Jainulabdeen, often held discussions on religious

matters with his close friend, Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry, the high priest of the Rameswaram temple.

Jainulabdeen had taught his son that human life is an essential part of the great divine spirit, all! troubles and deprivations have their relevance and adversities should not be feared for they provide man with opportunities for introspection.

These spiritual teachings helped Abdul Kalam to formulate a clear vision of life, that, if one can severe emotional and physical bonds, one can achieve one’s goals and made him believe in the existence of God.

Thus we learn how proper teachings, spiritual upbringing in a congenial atmosphere can shape a great mind and help it to advance towards future greatness.