The Salesian Sisters of Shillong Province headed by the Provincial Economer, Sr. Marcellina Sangma were the privileged ones to pay their last respect to the mortal remains of Late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam at the Shillong Helipad, Upper Shillong in the early hours of 28 July 2015. A beautiful wreathe was prepared for the occasion with the inscription “India has lost a great person in YOU, We will miss you, Adieu Dr. Kalam”. During the floral tribute by the different dignitaries Sr. Marcellina too represented us and placed the wreathe on our behalf.

The 11^th President of India Dr. Kalam who was in office from 2002 to 2007 breathed his last in Bethany hospital, a private hospital in the city of Shillong. The master of life found him ready while he was doing what he liked the most; that is interacting with young people, at the Indian Institute of Management, Shillong. This great visionary of the country has lived his eighty three years of earthly life to the full being all the time an inspiration to all he encountered. His thoughts and words reveal his personality, which abounds godliness and human values. The passing away of this giant of knowledge and virtue has brought a void, which we as educators are inspired to strive and bring forth young people who would follow in his footsteps.

Born on October 15, 1931 at Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, Kalam went on to become one of the country’s most celebrated aerospace and defence scientists. Dr. Kalam was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1981, Padma Vibhushan in 1990 and Bharat Ratna in 1997 besides hosts of other awards. Shillong is being blessed to receive the parting blessing of such a hero who completed his final sojourn here on earth in our beloved hill station. Rest in peace Sir!