Rajinikanth has expressed his grief over the death of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and described the former President of India as a "Mahatma".
The Tamil superstar took to Twitter to express his condolences. He posted, "I did not have the privilege of seeing our mahatma Gandhiji, Kamaraj or Barathiyaar, but was blessed enough to live admist mahatma Kalamji."
Rajinikanth added, "From humble beginnings Abdul Kalam ji rose to great heights but continued to live humble and simple. He lived to inspire millions of people. He endeared himself to student community motivating them at all levels. God has embraced him silently with love. May his soul rest in peace."
Apart from Rajinikanth, many celebrities have mourned the death of Kalam. Kamal Haasan has also written a poem on him in Tamil.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam was born on 15 October, 1931, to Jainulabdeen and Ashiamma in Rameswaram. His poor background did not deter him from pursuing his dreams as he moved to Madras in 1955 to study aerospace engineering at Madras Institute of Technology.
After completing his education, he started his career as a scientist at Aeronautical Development Establishment and moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 1969, where he won great laurels. He became a popular face after becoming the President of India between 2002 and 2007.
Kalam, who passed away on 27 July, inspired millions of people from all classes and walks of life. His simple lifestyle and humble nature became a role model for celebrities and public figures to follow. As a result, he had a fan following that no President of India enjoyed.
