Chennai, July 28 (IANS): Though former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was a rocket scientist, he was grounded to reality, DMK leader M.K. Stalin said on Tuesday.

In a statement issued here, Stalin said: "Abdul Kalam was a man of unparalleled sincerity, simplicity and intelligence. He was a rocket scientist who was grounded to reality."

According to Stalin, the inspirational talks of Kalam with the youth and the children made them dream of great things for themselves and for the nation.

DMK president M. Karunanidhi said the death of Kalam due to cardiac arrest on Monday was very shocking.

In his message issued here, Karunanidhi, recalling his association with Kalam, conveyed his deep condolence to Kalam's family members, friends and Indian youth.

In his message PMK founder S.Ramadoss said Kalam led a simple and principled life.

When he was the president, Kalam did not permit his relatives to stay in Rashtrapati Bhavan, Ramadoss said.

After his term as president Kalam preferred a simple accommodation to live forgoing palatial residence.