Wings of Fire: An Autobiography is the inspiring and deeply personal narrative of Dr Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam, universally revered as the 'People's President' and the visionary scientist who spearheaded India's march towards self-reliance in space and missile technology. Co-authored with Arun Tiwari, a close associate and fellow missile scientist, this autobiography chronicles the extraordinary journey of a humble boy from Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, who rose to become the 11th President of India, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's scientific landscape and the hearts of its citizens.
Published by Universities Press, this definitive account takes the reader through the life of a man whose very existence was a testament to perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams. Dr Kalam's story is not just a personal memoir; it is a compelling saga of a developing nation's struggle for technological prowess and self-sufficiency. The book begins with his Orientation (1931–1963), painting a vivid picture of his childhood in Rameswaram, where he drew profound wisdom from his father, Jainulabdeen, and was shaped by the communal harmony and strong spiritual values of his environment. It details his early education, his insatiable curiosity for flight, and the pivotal moment he chose the path of aeronautical engineering, a decision that would define his future.
The narrative then moves into the phase of Creation (1963–1980), where readers witness Kalam's foundational years as a scientist. From his work at the Langley Research Centre with NASA to his integral role at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), this section is a masterclass in innovation. It captures the trials, tribulations, and ultimate triumph of the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3) project, India's first foray into launching a satellite into orbit. The book offers an insider's perspective on the sheer grit required to build a space programme from the ground up, highlighting the crucial mentorship he received from legends like Dr Vikram Sarabhai and Dr Satish Dhawan.
The third part, Propitiation (1981–1991), is the heart of India's defence research story. This section documents Kalam's transformative leadership at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), where he steered the country's Guided Missile Development Programme. It provides a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at the conception, design, and successful launch of iconic missiles like Prithvi, Agni, Trishul, Akash, and Nag—projects that earned him the well-deserved title of the 'Missile Man of India'. The narrative does not shy away from setbacks and failures; instead, it portrays them as crucial learning experiences that forged the nation's resilience.
Finally, in Contemplation (1990–1991) and beyond, Dr Kalam reflects on his life's philosophy, the lessons learned from his mentors and failures, and his vision for a developed India by 2020. This section distils his thoughts on leadership, teamwork, and the importance of dreaming big. It serves as a guiding light, particularly for the youth, encouraging them to overcome adversity with courage and a sense of purpose. The book's title itself is drawn from his belief that everyone is born with a divine fire, and our purpose is to give wings to that fire through our efforts.
This Universities Press edition brings forth a story that is rich with technical insight yet remains profoundly human and accessible. It is a powerful narrative of how a small-town boy, with the support of his family, the guidance of exceptional teachers, and his own indomitable spirit, shaped the destiny of a billion people. Wings of Fire is more than an autobiography; it is a timeless guide on leadership, innovation, and living a life of purpose, making it an essential read for students, professionals, and anyone seeking motivation.
