SIVA SUBRANIAM IYER
The Science teacher, Siva Subramaniam Iyer, wanted to break the social barriers between the Hindus and the Muslims. He wanted Kalam to be very highly educated as he recognized his intelligence. One day, he invited him over to a meal

Introduction:
In the book "My Childhood" by A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the author shares his experiences and memories from his childhood. One of the incidents mentioned in the book is about a meal invitation that Kalam received from a Muslim family.

The Invitation:
Kalam narrates that during his childhood, his family lived in Rameswaram, a small island town in Tamil Nadu. They had a close-knit community, and people from different religions lived harmoniously. One day, a Muslim family invited Kalam to their house for a meal.

The Reason:
The reason behind the invitation was the deep respect and friendship that Kalam shared with the Muslim community in his town. Despite belonging to different religions, Kalam had developed strong bonds with people from various backgrounds.

Kalam's Acceptance:
Feeling honored and grateful for the invitation, Kalam gladly accepted it. He was excited about the opportunity to experience the culinary traditions and hospitality of the Muslim family.

The Meal:
On the appointed day, Kalam went to the Muslim family's house. He was warmly welcomed by the family members, who treated him with utmost respect and kindness. The family prepared a delicious meal comprising traditional Muslim dishes.

The Cultural Exchange:
During the meal, Kalam learned about the significance of various dishes and the customs associated with them. He observed the family's rituals and traditions, gaining a deeper understanding of their culture and values. The meal became an opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Lessons Learned:
Through this experience, Kalam learned the importance of embracing diversity and fostering interfaith harmony. He realized that regardless of religious differences, people can come together, share meals, and build strong relationships based on respect and understanding.

Conclusion:
The invitation from the Muslim family to Kalam for a meal in "My Childhood" symbolizes the unity and harmony that existed in his town. It highlights the power of mutual respect and cultural exchange in bridging gaps and building strong bonds within a diverse community.