‘The ultimate teacher’: Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple remembers Dr Kalam’s tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj

New Delhi: In Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji, former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’ s book recounts a deeply personal 14-year spiritual association with Pramukh Swamiji, describing him as a “true embodiment of transcendence.” Kalam believed Swamiji exemplified the state of gunatit, beyond worldly limitations—making him a symbol of spiritual purity and strength.

This powerful connection between Kalam and Swamiji sparked a vision where science and spirituality work in harmony to shape a better society. The book reflects on how inner values such as honesty, calmness, and forgiveness can guide individuals through life’s challenges. A notable example is Swamiji’s response to the 2002 Akshardham temple attack, he chose compassion over anger, focusing on the injured rather than seeking blame or vengeance.

Kalam also drew on conversations with global leaders like Nelson Mandela to reinforce the message of peaceful and honest living. He weaves these insights into his broader dream for India: a developed nation with balanced growth in agriculture, industry, and services, anchored in moral and spiritual values.

Transcendence is not just a memoir; it is a call to integrate inner peace with outward progress, guided by the wisdom of saints and scientists alike.