Former India President APJ Abdul Kalam took his last breath on 27 July and the entire nation was shocked to hear the sudden demise of the country's most popular president.
The 11th president was 83-years-old when he died. One of India's most respected figure, he received a number of honours such as Padma Bhusan in 1981, Bharat Ratna(1997), Hoover medal (2009), Ramanujan award (2000), King Charles medal (2007) amongst a number of other recognitions.
Most of us will not remember him through the awards that he won, but for the simple person he was, urging the youth of the country to strive for higher things in life. "My message, especially to young people is to have courage to think differently, courage to invent, to travel the unexplored path, courage to discover the impossible and to conquer the problems and succeed," Kalam had said on a previous occasion. "These are great qualities that they must work towards."
Abdul Kalam collapsed while delivering a speech at IIM Shillong to such young minds. After the sudden collapse, Kalam was soon rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead.
Kalam's last rites will take place in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also likely to attend.
High profile politicians, well known scientists, Bollywood personalities, activists all paid respect to the "missile man" of India on social media. Top cricketers from India along with other Indian athletes also paid tributes.
Here are some tweets from the Indian Sports fraternity
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar wrote - "The nation mourns the loss of a great person. Former President of India, a renowned scientist, an inspiration to all, a terrific human being..RIP Abdul Kalam."
Cricketer Virat Kohli posted – "A role model for so many, a visionary leader and a person with an indomitable spirit, RIP APJ Abdul Kalam Sir"
Former cricketer Anil Kumble tweeted – " A huge loss for the nation, you were a source of inspiration to millions of countrymen #RIP Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam"
Former cricketer VVS Laxman's tweet read, "RIP Dr.Abdul Kalam who passed away while doing what he loved the most,speaking 2 students& imparting knowledge 2 the young."
Tennis star Sani Mirza - "What a sad day this has been ?? #RIPKalam #GurdaspurAttack,"
Chess wizard Viswanathan Anand posted - RIP Shri Abdul Kalam. Till his last breath he inspired minds. A person with a great mind and kind heart.
Tennis doubles specialist Rohan Bopanna wrote - "Really sad to hear about the passing away of our former president Dr.Abdul Kalam. #RIP,"
Racer Karun Chandok tweeted - "Just heard the sad news that our former President Abdul Kalam passed away... A brilliant scientist and truly inspirational leader #RIP "
