Question

Describe Abdul Kalam’s childhood in Rameswaram. Was his childhood secure both materially and emotionally?

Answer 1

APJ Abdul Kalam was born on 15/10/1931 to a Tamil Muslim family in the pilgrimage centre of Rameswaram. His ancestors had been wealthy traders and landowners, with numerous properties and large tracts of land. Their business had involved trading groceries between the mainland and the island and to and from Sri Lanka, as well as ferrying pilgrims between the mainland and Pamban. As a result, the family acquired the title of "Mara Kalam Iyakkivar". however, the businesses failed and the family fortune and properties were lost over time, apart from the ancestral home. By his early childhood, Kalam's family had become poor; at an early age, he sold newspapers to supplement his family's income. In his school years, Kalam had average grades but was described as a bright and hardworking student who had a strong desire to learn. He spent hours on his studies, especially mathematics. In Rameswaram, Abdul Kalam's best friend was the son of a head priest. He did face discrimination because of his religion sometimes though. His family couldn't get everything he needed, but showered him with immense love, and he was emotionally secure, and not materially due to financial problems.

Answer 2

Answer :

In the chapter 'My Childhood,' A P J Abdul Kalam says "In fact, I would say mine was a very secure childhood, both materially and emotionally."

His childhood was secure materially as all the basic necessities of food, medicines and clothes were provided to him. It was secure emotionally as his parents loved him and took good care of him. They provided a stress free environment for his personal growth and all-round development.