The nation today paid homage to former President APJ Abdul Kalam with leaders cutting across the political spectrum and personalities from different walks of life hailing him as a "true son" and a "real gem". President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of dignitaries offered last respects to 83-year-old Kalam whose mortal remains were brought here from Shillong, where he died last night of a massive cardiac arrest. He was 83. Missile Man to President: 'Kalam drove people to think'Kalam reached out his hand and put his foot downKalam's journey started with cattle shed, some cycling help from a colleague