Here’s what we know about the upcoming Dr APJ Abdul Kalam biopic, ‘Kalam: The Missile Man of India’

A grand tribute to one of India’s most loved and respected figures is officially in the making. At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, the makers of Kalam: The Missile Man of India announced a biopic based on the life of Bharat Ratna Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. Known for his incredible contributions to India’s space and missile programmes, and his time as the 11th President of India, Dr Kalam is a visionary who continues to inspire millions even today. In celebrating the legacy of a man who believed in dreams, service, and science, this film hopes to spark the very ideals Dr Kalam spent his life promoting.

Leading this project is National Award-winning actor Dhanush, who will step into the shoes of Dr Kalam. The film will be directed by Om Raut, known for his grand storytelling and visual flair. Backing this high-profile project are two major names in Indian cinema—Abhishek Agarwal, the producer of The Kashmir Files, and T-Series' Bhushan Kumar. The screenplay has been penned by Saiwyn Quadras, whose previous works include acclaimed biopics like Neerja, Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, and Maidaan.

A journey from Rameswaram to Rashtrapati Bhavan

The film will trace Dr Kalam’s extraordinary journey from a modest childhood in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, to becoming one of India’s most respected scientists and ultimately, the President of India. His role in shaping India’s missile programmes earned him the title 'Missile Man of India', while his humble nature and love for teaching made him the “People’s President.”

Inspired by his bestselling autobiography Wings of Fire, the film will spotlight A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s groundbreaking scientific contributions while delving into the philosophical and poetic aspects of his life. Known for his wisdom, simplicity, and compassion, Kalam always believed in empowering the youth through education and innovation.

The film aims to be more than a traditional biopic. It is positioned as a story of nation-building, inner strength, and the importance of values like kindness, service, and knowledge. Director Om Raut shared, “In an era starved of true statesmen, Kalam stood above politics and pettiness. His life is a lesson that will connect with people no matter who they are or where they come from.”

Raut also emphasised the responsibility that comes with portraying such a monumental figure: “To bring his story to screen is an artistic challenge and a moral and cultural responsibility.” With Dhanush’s emotional range, Raut’s cinematic scale, and a solid production team, the film is already generating huge anticipation.

The biopic is still in the early stages of production, and the team has remained tight-lipped about further casting or release timelines. However, the buzz surrounding the announcement at Cannes suggests that Kalam: The Missile Man of India will be a film to watch out for, not just for its cinematic value, but for the inspiration it aims to bring to audiences in India and the world.

Lead image: Getty Images

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