President of India

When A P J Abdulkalam was nominated and subsequently elected as Indian President, it was hailed by all sections of society. Kalam has the deadly combination of being a scientist and philosopher. He could easily guide a missile to its destination and play Veena with the same expertise. He was the first Muslim to hold a high office, who could not write or speak Urdu, a good example for Hindu communalists. Kalam also recited Geeta! All this made him a good choice for the ruling alliance led by the Hindu Party. Despite all this, there was a consensus on his name among all the political parties.


He started off well, discarding many traditions. He changed the way the Head of the nation used to dress! We saw a complete change in the wardrobe. He covered his favorite blue shirt with Bandgala coat. But he did not cut his hairs! This long hairs later became a subject of laughter to self-styled Bal Thackery. During his tenure, we saw many firsts, which a included a visit to Prime Minister, visit to author Khushwant Singh and others!

Kalam went all his way to make Rashtrapati Bhavan, a People's Bhavan. He was described as people's president, who despite having no kid of his own, was popular with kids! At College functions, University convocations, he was seen giving oath to kids to become the best citizens and work towards making the country a developed nation by 2020. These actions were welcomed like breath of fresh air.

As the election year neared, Kalam was heard saying that he would not seek a second term, and instead devote himself to research and study. His alumni University even offered him a place to work! The nation was looking forward to say goodbye to its President, when the political parties started playing dirty game over the issue of the next Head of the nation. And when a newly constituted third front, comprising group of powerless politicians asked him to contest for second term, Kalam got confused and issued a 'Yes' statement. This made the Presidential election more confusing and picture became hazy. The ruling Party refused to budge and Kalam had to eat his words! It was a big fall for a man, who had over the years become an example of simplicity, honesty, integrity for the nation. This is a good example of power corrupting!