પરાત્પર (Transcendence) પ્રમુખસ્વામીજી સાથે મારી આધ્યાત્મિક યાત્રા

by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Pramukh Swamiji Maharaj, one of the most inspiring spiritual figures of modern times and the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, is the inheritor of a legacy of Gunatit gurus hearkening to the early nineteenth century.

Pramukh Swamiji became a friend of the eleventh president of India, Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Together they created an unparalleled spirituality-science fellowship.

In Transcendence, Dr Kalam and Arun Tiwari map a journey of self-realization reflected in the eyes of Pramukh Swamiji, painting a delightful fusion of spirituality, science and leadership.His candid vignettes from life on the centre stage of Indian technology and societal missions,Indian politics and world affairs are interwoven with revelations of a profound connection with Swamiji.

Through the life of Pramukh Swamiji and the history of the Swaminarayan mission, Dr Kalam traces the great rise of the Indian diaspora across the world. Drawing from the lives of great scientists and creative leaders, Transcendence captures the spiritual essence of all religions and is as much a fountain of inspiration and a treasury of wisdom as it is a tribute to the multi-faith Indian society.

Genres: Nonfiction, Spirituality, Philosophy, India, Biography

310 pages, Paperback

First published July 6, 2015

About the author

Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam (Tamil: அவுல் பகீர் ஜைனுலாப்தீன் அப்துல் கலாம்) usually referred to as A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, was one of India's most distinguished scientists. He was an Aerospace engineer, professor, and chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), who served as the 11th President of India from 2002 to 2007. During his term as President, he was popularly known as the People's President.

Before his term as India's president, he worked as an aeronautical engineer with DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). He was responsible for the development of India's first satellite launch vehicle,the SLV-3 He is popularly known as the Missile Man of India for his work on development of ballistic missile and space rocket technology. Kalam played a pivotal organisational, technical and political role in India's Pokhran-II nuclear test in 1998, the first since the original nuclear test by India in 1974.

He has the unique honour of receiving honorary doctorates from thirty universities and the country's three highest civilian honours - Padma Bhushan (1981), Padma Vibhushan (1990) and Bharat Ratna (1997).

Former President Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, who became popular as ‘People’s President’, passed away on July 27th, 2015 at the age of 83 in Shillong, India.

Reviews

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't really know what to expect when I started this book. I was lent this book by an owner of a market near my work. I pop in all the time, always with a book in tow. I guess seeing me reading frequently, he wanted to lend me a book of his. He called for me to wait after I made my purchase, brought back with him this book, offered it to me, and said I should take it with me and learn it.

So I started reading, again, not sure what to expect. Was this a self-help type book, would it be a preachy call to religion? It was neither one of these things, but it was a truly inspiring. APJ Abdul Kalam was a scientist and president of India. The book is a recounting of his time with his spiritual guru Pramukh Swami, the application of his spiritual guidance, an argument for the compatibility of science and spiritualism, and effective leadership.

There is a lot that the philosophy of the book has to say, but a couple that stuck out to me:

1. Diversity- Not only accepting, but appreciating and learning from. Diversity is necessary for growth and development...in life, in science, in politics. It applies everywhere. How refreshing is this in today's divisive partisan politics that are dominating the news cycle.

"All human beings are not supposed to be the same, feel the same, think the same, and believe the same things. The key to continued expansion of our universe lies in diversity, not conformity and coercion. If someone is able to show me that what I think or do is right, I will happily change. For I seek the truth, by which no one was ever truly harmed. It is the person who continues in his self-deception and ignorance—in spite of hearing the truth—who is harmed. Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." (20)

2. Forgiveness. Simple in concept, difficult in practice. Or so we think? There is a lot of character building and self development that seems to be required for true forgiveness. But in the end, he really makes the case for forgiveness being the path to the way forward. He quotes Nelson Mandela, after he asked how he felt after being released after years in prison, "As I walked out of the door towards the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison."

There is a lot more to glean and learn from this book , from Kalam, and from Pramukh Swami. I am glad I made enough on an impression on my new friends as a reader, to lead them to recommend this book. I am not sure if I would have come across it otherwise. Even though we don't share motherland, religion, or culture, we can share ideas. This sharing of ideas and listening to each other is what builds relationships, respect, and productive and progressive dialogue.

I think everyone can really learn something by taking a page from this book.

EDIT: Also, I learned a lot about India, neighboring countries, and world affairs (and science!). I think I try to stay well informed about what is going on in the world, but there is so much that is missed, not reported or stressed in the US. Reading this has me interested to pull other non-fiction work from around the world.

[Sundarraj Kaushik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Abdul Kalam was highly influenced by Pramukh Swamiji's BAPS program. In the book Dr. Kalam has quoted different instances and examples to show the greatness of Pramukh Swamiji and his contribution to establishing peace in the society.
One of the major incidents he speaks of is of the attack on the Akshardham temple by the terrorists. He states that Pramukh Swamiji harboured no grievance against the terrorists who caused mayhem in the temple and instead went about attending to the injured and taking actions to put the temple back in shape after the attack.

The second significant example of forgiveness mentioned in the book is about Nelson Mandela. When Dr. Kalam met Dr. Mandela he asked him "What was your feeling as you left the prison after twenty seven years?". Dr. Mandela's reply was "As I walked out of the door towards the gate that would lead me to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison". The best part is he walked the talk. He did have a open policy and prevented any kind of revenge on the whites by the blacks. It really requires a kind heart and a mature personality to make such a statement and then follow it through with the same action.

Throughout the books he speaks of how being open, honest, calm, and loving one can transcend all the problems in life.
He quotes the example of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai won over the villagers. The spot in Thumba which was selected for the launch of the satellites was occupied by a village which was predominantly christian. The authorities did not know how to persuade these villagers to move. Dr. Sarabhai went and spoke to the priest about the requirement of the location being very suitable for rocket launching and how crucial it was for India to have the space center at the very same location. The priest understood and in the Sunday sermon he spoke to the villagers and told them that they need to vacate the place and that they would be provided alternate accommodation at a suitable place so that they could continue to earn their livelihoods. The villagers acceded with no rancor, and the rest is history.
He summarizes is vision of India 2020 in the following points:
1. Where the rural and urban divide has reduced to a thin line
2. where there is equitable distribution and adequate access to energy and quality water
3. where the agriculture, industry and service sector work together in concert
4. where education with a value system is not denied to any meritorious candidates on account of societal or economic discrimination.
5. which is the best destination for the most talented scholars, scientists and investors
6. where the best health care is available to all
7. where the governance is responsive, transparent and corruption-free
8. where poverty has been totally eradicated
9. illiteracy removed and crimes against women, children are absent
10. where no one in society feels alienated
11. that is prosperous, healthy, secure, devoid of terrorism, peaceful and happy
12. that continues with sustainable growth path and above all that is one of the best places to live in and is proud of its creative and effective leadership in parliament, state assemblies and other institutions.
An ideal vision. Even if we achieve some of the above the rest will follow. Notice the point 4 "education is not denied to any meritorious", he is definitely requesting the dismantling of the "reservations". Will anybody listen? Rather will any politician listen?

He speaks about how the harmonious lives of people from different religions in Rameshwaram had a deep impact on him throughout the life.

The whole book speaks about how peace loving Dr. Kalam was in his life and how much he was awestruck with Pramukh Swamiji.

A very good read about two peace loving, kind, kindred souls.

[Surender Negi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is one of the most influence book in India. 200000 Copy has been sold and counting. Story about India's best President, Teacher, Scientist and Most spiritual person. This book try hard to make bridge between Hindus and Muslim. But I feel very sorry when Politician Like Owasi n Azam Khan (Muslim extremist politician with Majority of Muslim agreement) called such person Fake Muslim, Just because he read Bhagwat Gita or had good relationship with Swami Pramukha Maharaj.

This show how Muslims and their leader think about India, Indians (Hindus and others) and Heritage. Its show extremist seeds in Indian soil.

[Mohit Parikh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Review soon...

[Khushi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I genuinely enjoyed this book! I have always had immense respect for Dr. Abdul Kalam, and reading this book made me respect him even more. I love how he combines spirituality with science, as it has been something I was always interested in. Growing up in a Swaminarayan household, I also loved all of the examples he took from Pramukh Swamiji's life and used it to inspire today's youth. He referenced many other great philosophers, spiritual leaders, scientists, etc. and spoke of how we can use these ideas to better ourselves. His thoughts on forgiveness, diversity, and leadership have changed my mindset and set me on the path to personal growth.

[Prabhakar Kamaraj]

whenever i read APJ book, i feel my energy at different level. Excellent book with an attempt to merge science & spirituality. impressed by the explanation about matter and energy. Thank you APJ SIR. i miss you!

[Rupin Chaudhry · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the pen of the master statesman/scientist/teacher and demigod for the youth, comes a book on the most intricate relation and intensely debated issue of science-religion-spirituality. By no means this book is an easy read, one has to chew and assimilate each chapter piece by piece.
For those who have the desire and will to self audit, this is a holy grail.

[Neelam · Rating 3 out of 5]

good one

[Priyanshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I began this book in 2015, a few months after it had been released. At that time, I could not relate much to it and found it a bit tedious to read - what could I possibly gain from this book?

But, life reveals all in due time, and as Mr. Arun Tiwari mentions in the Acknowledgments, "Providence will decide when it (this book) will reach their (the readers') hands," it truly was Providence, or God's will, which decided when I would read this book. Though it lay on my shelf for two years, I was made to pick it up when I truly needed it and when I would truly understand the profound messages that embellish the pages of this book.

I am glad I picked up this book.

During my first read, it took me months to read just the first 50 pages or so, after which I put it away again. When I picked it up this time, it took me less than four days to complete the entire book from the beginning.

Why? Because I was selfish.

I understood that this book has so many gems that I can collect and store and which will benefit me if I identified them and was able to relate them to my own life. And, so, when you realize how something will serve your needs, you give it first priority.

Again, amazing book. A mix of memoir, spiritual wisdom, and enlightening advice for the young and old alike. Highly recommended for those who have the intellectual capacity and understanding to view all perspectives with broadmindedness and then, apply the objectively best possible version in their own lives.

I echo Mr. Arun Tiwari's words,
"Let peace be upon all the readers of this book."

And may Pramukh Swamiji and Dr. Kalam serve as an inspiration for you, as well.

[Dr. Kshitija · Rating 4 out of 5]

APJ is a highly respected scientist and my favourite author since childhood. I wanted to understand his perspective of how science and spirituality blend. I first came across this book at the Rashtrapati bhavan museum and finally purchased it when I went to Akshardham. Initial part of the book covers journey of Saint Neelkanth and how he came to be Bhawan Swaminarayan and the activities of their organisation and Pramukh Swami ji's inspiring work. In the second part, the author quotes different religions and shows that the underlying message of humanity is the same. I liked the third part the most. It is about fusion of science and spirituality. I was reminded of all the school lessons of environmental sciences and all the amateur astronomy readings from childhood. As a scientist, I think he does his best in this part. The last part is about creative leadership. Overall, it is not a promotion of any religion, but a call to awaken out conscience to focus on peaceful living.

[Book'd Hitu · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book shows a whole new avatar of Shri APJ Abdul Kalam to the world.
I was amazed to learn how much he was attached to and following the principles of Shri Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The book narrates APJ's experiences with Shri Pramukh Swami Maharaj and how his guidance helped him in the difficult situations.
A wonderful book, read it to believe it.

[Bhavik Kakkad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly inspiring book, worth reading for every one!

[Glenside Library]

The author shares their spiritual experience with Pramukh Swamiji and how Swamiji inspired and changed his life.

[Danish Zahoor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I expected to gain more out of this book than divine moments of Bromance: handholding, eyes welling and smiling at each other.

[Devarshi J · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's the best book.

[Anirban · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book, he discusses about different qualities in a leader or even in a common person related to spirituality and his admiration of qualities of Pramukh Swamiji

[Hiren Ladva]

NA

[Mahesh K Adewar · Rating 5 out of 5]

To the righteous people of the world..

"I would like to start with End paragraph of this book, "This book is not a course on religion or spirituality. No fundamental principle described in this book should be interpreted as being intended to interfere, either directly or indirectly, with any person's religious beliefs or social habits. All of us - bright atheists and committed religionist- need to awaken now and hear the eartha call. We need to give and receive as love shows us how, joining with each pilgrim who quests for truth, giving heed to the voices of the suffering, awakening our conscience with justice as our guide, and working towards a planet transformed by our care. Only justice, fairness, consideration and shared aims can finally lead human beings to the dawn of eternal peace. The only thing that will redeem humankind is cooperation. LET Us Make Our Planet More Livable!!!!!! "

I always admired Kalam. He is truly a guiding soul full of optimism, positivity and vision . He was not only a successful scientists but also most loved president of India ( people's President).

This book is divided in 4 parts
1. Experiencing the presence.
2.spirituality in action
3.fusion of science and spirituality
4.Evolution of creative leadership

Each section and each chapter has great massage that is helpful as an individual and for society at large.

There are great quotes from scientists, religious texts and great philosopher and which will have soothing effect and memorable lessons. ( socrates to einstain , Darwin's, Gita, Qaran, Bibles and so on)

So in short I would say, it's a recommended book. Apart from this you should also read at least 2 books of kalam

1. Wings of fire.
2.learning how to fly.

Actually I read previously rest of his books and I think this book is the last written by him and here he spoke about transcendence and related things.

Read it.

[Sanjay Patel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dr. Kalam is a highly respected scientist of international acclaim, father of India’s nuclear and missile programs, a former President of India (a non-political role like that of England’s monarchy), a social reformer, and a philosopher.

Equally impressive, Pramukh Swami is a highly respected spiritual leader of Hinduism, one of the most influential religious leaders in the world, a monk, a scholar, a proponent of science, a social reformer, and a unifier of world faiths.

So I began reading this book with excitement assuming from its title that it was all about Kalam’s spiritual experiences with Pramukh Swami. It was a little disappointing to discover halfway through that only the first half is about this intriguing topic. Nevertheless, it is insightful, inspiring, and well worth reading.

The second half of Kalam’s book is still connected to Pramukh Swami. It generally discusses Kalam’s vision for India and how it was transformed by ideas inputted by the Swami. It also discusses how science and spirituality connect. Unfortunately, it gives few details. Kalam does, however, show that many scientists of note are not atheistic but spiritual in their outlook.

He sprinkles all this with more incidents, works, and insights from Pramukh Swami. I feel these incidents are the saving grace of the second half of the book, again, considering its title.

All of Kalam’s discussions with the Swami are impressive and rational. You can also see that there has developed a mutual regard and respect between the two great Teachers.

Ultimately, this book is about how a scientist and a sage came to become close friends – and how their dialogue could change society as we know it. Perhaps, it could also change how society views the role of spiritual teachers (and also how spiritual teachers might view themselves) in our rapidly evolving science savvy world. A rare book and a must read.

[Koduvayur Harikrishnan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, hardly needs any introduction: the 11th President of India, Rocket scientist, also called the Missile Man of India, author of many bestselling books, visionary leader, and above all, a true Indian. This book by him (and his pupil and friend Arun Tiwari) is perhaps his greatest literary output. It is a seminal piece of work on the inter-relationship between science and religion. The book is based on Dr Kalam(a devout and practising Muslim)'s fellowship with Pramukh Swamiji (of the Swaminarayan Organisation), one of modern India's greatest spiritual leaders, representing the majority Hindu faith. The book takes the reader through four stages, in as many parts of the script, culminating in the treatise, no less, of creative leadership skills. His writing style is brilliant yet very simple and straightforward. The outstanding aspect of the entire book is the honesty and humility that shine brightly throughout the book's pages. His vision for a great India as a part of a great planet, his scientific explanations of simple things like the oneness of all living beings and complex principles like Quantum Physics, and the all-important message of the commonality among all religions, is worth reading again and again. In a simple yet profound way, Dr Kalam drives home the point that all of us need to cooperate rather than compete with one another, for the greater good of the planet. This book ought to be read by anyone with the slightest interest in the future of our planet, and of human beings as a species. I can easily say I have not been influenced by any other book this much in my many, many years of reading books. It ought to be made compulsory reading in schools across the world.

[Ankita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Transcendence... the title itself is enough to transfer us into the spiritual world! This book describes the spiritual experiences of India's most respected (my favorite) President & the great scientist APJ Abdul Kalam with spiritual head (Guru) of BAPS sanstha- HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

It is an attempt by APJ Abdul Kalam sir to describe the importance of religion and spirituality along with science and technology in development of disciplined youth for overall development of our country. Today's youth have all technological advancement and knowledge but it lacks proper spiritual guidance and beliefs! This book will take you on a journey of science & spirituality with quotes and real life incidents of great personalities of various sectors.

I am Lord Swaminarayan devotee myself and Param Pujya Pramukh Swami is our guru. I feel immense proud of my religion & religious beliefs after reading this book as it throws light on how Swami bapa was living example of selflessness, humanity, compassion & unconditional love for everyone in this world! Inspite of being head of BAPS sanstha he was very down to earth and inspiration for thousands of people of every religion or region! His good character and true spirituality attracted many intelligent and talented people like Abdul Kalam and Dalai Lama. Whoever met him once would never forget him! This book will always have a special place in my heart as it covers everything I am crazy about:
Pramukh Swami Maharaj
APJ Abdul Kalam
Connection of Science, Spirituality & Religion

[Jayesh Shah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Professor and ex-President of India's book Transcendence is an enjoyable book. President Abdul Kalam had frequent meetings with Pramukh Swamiji who was a spiritual leader of Swaminarayana sect of Hinduism.

President Kalam's work as space scientist of India was groundbreaking. More than that he showed how a leader should be. Even when he was President of India, he lived a simple life. He donated most of his wealth, he had very few belongings and spent his life inspiring and encouraging India's youth.

Pramukh Swamiji inspired millions of Hindus all over the world. Meetings of these two people and their dialogues are of course interesting.

[Bharat Parikh · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book by renowned scientist and most loved public figure of his time on a genuine spiritual leader. The thoughts are arranged in a systematic way and cater to both spiritual minded and to those that need science to back anything before they believe. Pramukh Swamiji must have been a great person to have so deeply touched a devout muslim so as to inspire him to write an entire book and to call him as his ultimate teacher. Have read it once during a transatlantic journey and would read it again to try and understand things I missed the first time.

[Chike Darnayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broad on its ideas, the former India President journey in meeting Pramukh of BAPs and and his relationship and inspiring friendship with this charismatic community, despite APJ Kalam as Muslim, his openess and how he embrace the Religion, Science and Governance to during his presidency time. Humility, Spiritual, Theories, Science and Practical wisdom are here to set your Philosophy in life and leadership in full potential. Great book for any leaders who wants to change their community, office, city and a country. APJ Kalam has other books i wish to read and collect.

[Vikas Belapurkar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book consists of several chapters which start with Dr. Kalam's personal experiences with Pramukh Swamiji which are followed by unfurling of the deep spiritual meaning therein. Each chapter starts with fantastic and the most appropriate quotes. It does an excellent job of bridging the gap between science and spirituality. Filled with anecdotes and Dr. Kalam's experiences with spirituality, the reader will experience both fast and slow pace throughout the book. In the last section Dr. Kalam writes about ideal leadership which is based on spiritual values.

[SUMAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read book. Highly recommended to the people of all religion who believes in peace. This is a book to explain spirituality through science. Any best vocabulary to explain the beauty of Dr Kalam's vision, to spread this oneness knowledge to the common citizens, will be an underestimate. I was amazed how he picked up quality of Saint even though he was great scientist. One must purchase this book and best gift to anyone specially for students. Dr. Kalam, we will miss you.

[Yash Sampat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Transcendence is one of the books closest to my heart. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam has described his spiritual experiences with HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj and has highlighted socio-spiritual activities by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Moreover, Dr. Kalam has also highlighted how people from different walks of life can come together and create a better future. The lessons from this book can provide possible solutions to the present polarized world and pave a way to start creative leadership among people.

[Divyam Shah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kalam finally lets out his secret on how one man could accomplish so much in one life. Kalam brilliantly captures the importance of spiritual knowledge when in pursuit of larger goals. I particularly loved the third and fourth parts where he covers how science and spirituality go hand in hand and the role played by it in "creative leadership".

[Bijal Mangi]

"We need to give and receive as love shows us how, joining with each pilgrim who quests for the truth, giving heed to the voices of suffering, awakening our consciences with justice as our guide, and working towards a planet transformed by our care."

- A.P.J Abdul Kalamji

[Mukesh Chaudhary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable, Simplicity at it's best