Dr. Kalam arrived at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Sarangpur to offer the book, “Transcendence”, authored by him, to HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The book mainly describes his experiences with Swamiji over a period of 14 years.
Dr. Kalam expressed that he had observed Pramukh Swami’s life for 14 years and worked for 2 years on writing this book along with the co-author Professor Arun Tiwari. During the dedication ceremony Dr. Kalam presented an autographed copy to Pramukh Swami Maharaj and said, “You are a great teacher. From you I’ve learnt to eradicate I-ness and My-ness in life.” Dr. Kalam then read some passages from his book before Swamishri and asked him to bless all those who have helped him in making the book possible.
After the meeting, Dr. Kalam was welcomed in an assembly of 3,000 youths. Brahmavihari Swami talked briefly about the mutual bonds of friendship, spirituality and respect between Dr. Kalam and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
Dr. Kalam then addressed the youths, “Where there is righteousness in the heart there is beauty in character. Where there is beauty in character there is harmony in the home. Where there is harmony in the home there is order in the nation. Where there is order in the nation there is peace in the world. In Pramukh Swami I saw righteousness and therefore peace in him.”
Dr. Kalam also exhorted the youths to become unique by having a high aim, increasing their knowledge, working hard and not allowing problems to overwhelm them.
After a brief question-answer session with youths Dr. Kalam concluded his speech at 2:20 p.m. and departed from Sarangpur.
Dr. Kalam’s book will be available at all HarperCollins’ outlets and agencies from 22nd June and at all BAPS mandirs from 28th June.