President Kalam, who is often referred to as a People’s President, brings with him a multitude of experiences and achievements. He has been a distinguished scientist, advisor to the cabinet, and a leader of people. Dr. Kalam has a reputation of being a great thinker and a prolific writer.

Performing along with the composer were his daughter Vidita Kanniks and a choir of young children of Indian origin from the Seattle area who had participated in a choral workshop conducted by Kannikeswaran.

 The production explored the spirit of inclusiveness inherent in Indian culture using the paradigm of Indian music. The 20 minute performance held the distinguished audience spellbound and resulted in a spontaneous standing ovation and a personal congratulation from the President.

Kannikeswaran presented Dr Kalam with a copy of ‘Vismaya – An Indo Celtic Musical Journey’, his recording featuring the little known genre of ‘nottusvara sahityas’ that was born as a result of the interaction between Indian classical and western folk traditions during the colonial rule in the 1800s.  Vidita is featured as the lead singer in this compilation which was released earlier last year.

Dr. Kalam was introduced to the audience by William H. Gates Sr. the chairman of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The reception (banquet) for Dr. Kalam who was visiting the Seattle area was hosted by the local Chapter of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TIE). Dr. Kalam’s lecture titled ‘Vision 2020: Transforming India into an economically developed nation ‘ was addressed to TIE members, invited guests and industry leaders. TIE-Seattle is part of a global network backed by leading entrepreneurs of Indian nationality or descent. TIE fosters and supports entrepreneurship through networking and mentoring.