Agnipaksha by A P J Abdul Kalam [Hardcover]

Agni-Paksha is the life story of a man whose name is known across the length and breadth of India, from the seas to the Himalayas, and by citizens around the world. This man possesses immense vitality and a vast realm of thought. His words may not always be easy to understand, but they are consistently fresh and lively, always brimming with novelty and enthusiasm. His thoughts are diverse and vividly colorful. His love for the people of India is boundless, and he feels a natural affinity with the simplest and most humble individuals, seeing himself as one of them.

Despite this deep connection, he was initially hesitant to share his life story with the public. After all, why would people be interested in the struggles, obstacles, and achievements of a young boy from a small town? What benefit would there be in knowing about his intense financial hardships during school days, or his choice of a vegetarian lifestyle due to economic constraints during college?

Caught in a dilemma, he realized that a person's life cannot be separated from the social context in which it unfolds. Understanding this truth, he decided that perhaps he could share how, instead of becoming a district collector as his father wished, or a pilot in the air force, he ended up as a missile engineer. He could also speak of those who deeply influenced and inspired him, helping him fulfill his ambitions and dreams.

With this conviction, he began to unfold the pages of his life for others. Although this book might merely outline the colorful tapestry of his life, it still represents a pilgrimage. It narrates the extraordinary journey of his "Divine Fire" spreading its wings and soaring into the sky. But this is not just a tale of personal success or suffering. This book also serves as a record of the successes and failures of modern India as it strives to establish itself as a leader in science and technology.