Did you know that APJ Abdul Kalam did not own a refrigerator or an air conditioner?

APJ Abdul Kalam has left an indelible imprint on the hearts and minds of Indians in a way that few other prominent figures have in recent memory. He attained in death the kind of popularity that politicians long for but may never come close to achieving. On the occassion of the birth anniversary of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, let's talk about his simple life.

Simplicity at It's Best

It has since come to light that the "People's President" owned very nothing materially except his 2,500 books, a watch, six shirts, four pairs of pants, three suits and a pair of shoes. Kalam lacked any real estate, as well as a refrigerator, TV, automobile, and air conditioner. This is coming from a guy who served the public for more than 50 years, including eight years as president of the Country.

He did not pass away in poverty, but he also did not lead a life of luxury. He wrote four novels, all of which he received royalties from, and he also received a pension. It's unknown how much money he had saved up throughout his entire life. Sheridan, who served as his secretary for more than 20 years, remarked, "It wasn't much to write home about.

No Gift Policy

The government gave him a residence at 10 Rajaji Marg after he left office. Even though the two-story house is now abandoned, stories about his honesty persist. He was strict about not accepting any personal gifts and made sure that all gifts were properly counted and sent to the toshakhana of the government.

"He would never accept a present, with the exception of a book, and he insisted on opening any package gifts that were intended to be books. Everything else was gently returned,"says his former media advisor SM Khan.

Because of his well-known passion for technology, Kalam usually stayed up to date through radio. In his living space, he lacked a television. Radio or newspapers were how he acquired his news. His crew watched TV on the single television in his Rajaji Marg home, according to Khan.

Family Lover

Khan revealed how his older brother, who is 99 years old, was revered by the previous president. Kalam held his elder brother APJ Marakayar in high regard and was eager to commemorate his brother's 100th birthday but unfortunately he left us all before that. President Kalam would always call him (his brother) before leaving or returning from an important lecture, says Sheridan. "One of the things that gave him (Kalam) immense joy was when he helped his brother get access to 24-hour power supply by installing a solar panel at their ancestral home," adds Sheridan. The day before departing for Shillong, he had contacted him.

"The lives of great men remind us, we can make our lives sublime, and, departing, leave behind us, footprints on the sands of time." Former President APJ Abdul Kalam was not there when Wordsworth wrote these lines. These lines would have been penned for Kalam if the two men had been the same age.