A mini shrine devoted to former president A. P. J. Abdul Kalam is an unusual addition to Thillai Nagar’s 10th Cross in the city.
The ‘Abdul Kalam Temple’ is a tribute to the inspiring life and philosophy of the missile technologist who rose from humble roots to lead the nation, said K. Pushparaj, who has erected the temple in front of his showroom dealing in integrated solar energy projects.
“I have always been an ardent follower of Kalam, especially his motivational writings and speeches,” Mr. Pushparaj told The Hindu . “And though I didn’t get an opportunity to meet him personally, I have always considered him as my mentor. Like him, I want to concentrate on achieving, rather than talking about goals.” Inspired his book ‘Wings of Fire’, which urges readers to dream, and set a deadline for it, Mr. Pushparaj has given himself time up to July 22, 2022 to create a business worth ₹ 1,000 crore.
“I have framed a cheque for this amount and displayed it in my office to keep myself motivated,” he said.
Mr. Pushparaj’s establishment has been based in Thillai Nagar for the past eight years. “We have tried to stay as true as possible to the concept of a regular temple.
‘Stapathi’ (temple architect) Saravanan of Srirangam helped with the shrine’s layout, and the deity (a cement bust of the former president),” said Mr. Pushparaj.
The 13-feet-tall temple was built at a cost of ₹ 1 lakh in three months. Prayer services are conducted twice daily by Mr. Pushparaj and his staff, and ‘prasadam’ is given every Friday.
