Former President Bharat Ratna Dr APJ Abdul Kalam passed away in Shillong on Monday evening. He was 84.

The Missile Man of India, the name by which Kalam was popular, was rushed to Bethany Hospital after he collapsed during a lecture at IIM Shillong. 

According to reports, Kalam suffered a 'massive cardiac arrest' during the lecture and was rushed to the hospital where he was put under observation in the ICU. Despite all the efforts, the doctors could not revive him. He was declared dead by the doctors at 7.45 pm.

Patricia Mukhim, Editor of The Shillong Times on her Facebook post said: "Former President of India, APJ Abdul Kalam collapses during a lecture at IIM Shillong.

Reportedly brought dead to Bethany Hospital. Dr Kalam has been a guest faculty at IIM Shillong for the last couple of years! A life well led by example. A great, dedicated teacher until the very end! No salute will be enough for this great son of Mother India. No likes please. Only comments."

Hearing the news of his demise, thousands of local residents gathered outside the hospital wanting to see the body of the Abdul Kalam for the last time. Draped in the Indian flag, the body was brought out of the hospital by the army personnel, who then proceeded take it to the Shillong army hospital, from where will be flown to Guwahati in the morning.