Chapter 6: My Childhood
- Who is the author of this lesson?
The lesson is an excerpt from the autobiography of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India and a great scientist. - Where was Abdul Kalam born?
He was born in Rameswaram, a town in Tamil Nadu, known for its temples and spiritual history. - Describe Abdul Kalam’s family.
He belonged to a middle-class Muslim family, with a father who was generous and spiritual, and a mother who was kind and hospitable. - What values did Kalam inherit from his parents?
He learned honesty, discipline, humility, and spirituality, which shaped his character and future. - What kind of boy was Kalam in childhood?
He was hardworking, curious, and obedient, always eager to learn and respectful towards elders. - What role did Kalam’s father play in society?
He wasn’t educated, but he was wise and respected for his spiritual and practical advice. - How was Kalam’s mother described?
She was loving and caring, feeding many people daily, regardless of caste or community. - What did Kalam do as a child to earn money?
He collected newspapers during the Second World War and distributed them for a small income. - What was the impact of World War II on Kalam?
It gave him an opportunity to earn and understand the world beyond his village. - Who was Kalam’s close friend in school?
Ramanadha Sastry, the son of a Hindu priest, was his best friend in school. - What incident shocked young Kalam in school?
A new teacher objected to Kalam sitting with a Brahmin boy, which deeply hurt both boys. - How did Ramanadha Sastry’s father react?
He wept at the incident and ensured the teacher realized his mistake and never repeated such discrimination. - What does the school incident reveal?
It shows how deeply rooted casteism was, but also highlights the strength of secular friendship and family values. - What lesson did Kalam learn from this?
That equality and friendship are more important than caste or religion. - Who was Sivasubramania Iyer?
He was Kalam’s science teacher, a Brahmin who believed in breaking social barriers. - What did Iyer do to support Kalam?
He invited Kalam for dinner, and when his wife refused to serve him, he served Kalam himself. - How did Iyer’s wife react later?
She was initially hesitant due to orthodox beliefs, but later changed her attitude and served Kalam. - What message does Iyer’s action give?
That change begins with courage. He challenged societal norms to stand up for equality. - What does Kalam say about religion and education?
He believes that religion and education should unite people, not divide them. - How did Kalam’s upbringing influence his success?
He was raised with discipline, tolerance, and integrity, which helped him stay focused and grounded. - What was Kalam’s dream as a child?
He dreamed of serving his nation and doing something meaningful in science and technology. - What is the tone of the chapter?
Reflective, sincere, and inspirational, filled with lessons on equality and harmony. - What message does the lesson give?
To treat everyone with respect and compassion, and rise above narrow divisions like caste and religion. - What does Kalam admire about his childhood?
The unity in diversity in his town and the human values he learned from his surroundings. - What kind of education system did he grow up in?
One where teachers like Iyer believed in inclusive education and values over prejudice. - How did Kalam’s family treat people from other communities?
They welcomed everyone, fed them, and never discriminated—living examples of secularism. - Why is the title “My Childhood” apt?
Because it recounts the formative years of Kalam’s life, shaping his identity and beliefs. - How did Kalam respond to discrimination?
He didn’t retaliate with anger; instead, he observed, learned, and chose the path of wisdom and unity. - What lesson do we learn from the chapter?
To break barriers of caste, religion, and class, and create a more inclusive and empathetic society. - How does Kalam inspire students today?
Through his humble beginnings, strong values, and immense contribution to India, he remains a role model of integrity and vision.