India is a land of cultural and religious diversity and the world's largest democracy. The challenge is to harness this diversity and channelise our energies in nation building. Great leaders of all religions seem to be in perfect agreement on this. I was moved by an example Dr Kalam has cited in this book. In the southern Indian town of Kanchipuram, there exist a mosque and a Hindu mutt side by side. When there was a move to shift the mosque further away to reduce congestion , the Hindu saint vehemently protested - "In fact , when at 4:30 AM the call for namaz comes from the mosque, it acts as a wake-up call for my divine duties". This is the message the nation needs most at this moment.
This book to some extent repeats from "Wings of Fire" and "India 2020". But to me it is not repetition, but reinforcement. The challenge to remove poverty by 2010 and achieve the status of a developed nation by 2020 is no simple task. This is a call to all Indians to join forces in this great mission.
On 30 September 2001, Dr Kalam narrowly escaped unhurt in a helicopter crash. This event seems to have had a strong impact on his mind , resulting in greater vigor and resolve to accomplish his mission . God has been kind to him and to us the citizens of India, in saving this noble man and assigning him the responsibility to the highest office of this country.
"Dream, Dream, Dream
Dreams transform into thoughts
And thoughts result in action."
The time for action in NOW.
This small book puts the goal of a developed India in the hearts and minds of its people.
APJ Abdul Kalam, now the President of India is a living example that decent, honest, people can still suceed. His books are a refreshing read to any Indian.