LEXINGTON, KY.- The Art Museum at the University of Kentucky and the Bluegrass Indo-American Civic Society welcome his Excellency, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, 11th president of India. Kalam will appear at "Celebration India," an event that includes a talk by the former president, scheduled for March 23, 2008, at the Singletary Center for the Arts Concert Hall. The event is held in conjunction with Kalam's visit to the museum's exhibition "Miniature Worlds: Art from India."

In addition to Kalam’s address, "Celebration India" will include a performance of Indian dance and music and entrance to the Art Museum’s current exhibition, "Miniature Worlds." Individuals planning to attend are asked to reserve tickets to this talk. Free tickets are available to all teachers and students with reservations and IDs. Information may be attained by calling (859) 257-4929 or visiting online at www.singletarytickets.com.

During Kalam’s visit, he is also scheduled for several additional appearances on the university campus, including a lecture for the Gatton College of Business and Economics, a question and answer session with The Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce, and visits to Kentucky Children’s Hospital and The Arboretum.

Kalam was born in 1931 and served as India’s president from 2002 to 2007. He is one of India’s most distinguished scientists having earned a doctorate in aeronautical engineering from Madras Institute of Technology and been awarded honorary degrees from more than 30 universities and institutions. Kalam served as the director for a project that developed India’s first indigenous Satellite Launch Vehicle in 1980. During his term as India’s president he was credited with many social and economic developments. In his Technology Vision 2020, he outlines his vision for India to become a developed nation by the year 2020. He is particularly dedicated to students, whom he believes are essential for achieving this vision.