Another remarkable experience of meeting Dr Abdul Kalam @ Hosur on 4th April 2009. He Inaugurated India’s first Virtual Contact centre & Rural Business Hub @ a nearby village, named Sanasandiram.

Having had the good fortune of meeting several visionaries & leaders from Govt, and Industry globally, every meeting with Dr Kalam is a sure refreshing moment. You come away re-charged 100X unknowingly. It is no surprise that he has been the Icon of Future India’s confidence and youth. I hear from several others (who are special leaders themselves) praising this special person for this inspiration that seems to permeate very naturally.

Through his action, he proves as THE PERSON sought after by all sections of people & of all ages. Here are few highlights :::

• Hand shake with this great personality electrified me. It is yet-another special moment, knowing that this hand has been instrumental in India’s several Space & Defense Initiatives and the same hands have greeted several world leaders
• I am zapped with the spark in his eyes and continued youth in him. I met him about 10 years ago and I see the same enthusiasm in him today !!
• Hearing him privately on issues that are close to his heart ::: India as a Strong & Super power Country, Children, Rural development & Environment
• His ability to connect with all levels of people is something we need to see to believe. Instead of a customary speech, he was in a constant dialogue mode with the crowd  many of them School children & youth, asking them to repeat pledges. He stands-out in this, since most others stay away from such action.
• Crowd enthusiasm is amazing, though he left office years ago. People lined up the streets and outside the guest house in big numbers. Huge crowd waited patiently inside a function hall on a hot sunny afternoon
• His humbleness and courtesy continues to multiple his goodwill capital. At his age, many would prefer relaxing, instead this Gem reaches out to people, waving at them at every possible opportunity (remember, he is provided very high security) and shaking hands with as many as possible, that specially includes youth. I am sure such a “Natural” connect is rare and THIS PERSON has it all.
• His rapid fire responses mean business. For e.g.

• asked media people to sit down, so the crowd can see him and he can see them
• his answer to why India should continue Defense spending
• his on-the-spot check with Collector on Infant mortality rate in Krishnagiri district
• his request to District administration to use Youth to collect 5-key data from every village during School holiday time

I am thankful to God and others who made this meeting possible.