In a message Bilimoria said "Without any doubt, President Abdul Kalam was modern India's most popular president and was aptly called the 'People's President'.
"I had the privilege to know President Kalam and he was a truly inspirational individual who charmed you instantly with his wonderful smile, his humility, kindness and friendliness," he said.
"He was a completely down to earth individual and, although a rocket scientist, he was truly grounded! Every time I heard him speak I came away utterly inspired by his positivity and optimism," Bilimoria said.