Does God Exist?
An intellectual debate between Mufti Shamail Nadwi and Javed Akhtar exploring faith, reason, and morality.
Read Full ArticleDebate Introduction: Mufti Shamail Nadwi vs Javed Akhtar
The debate commenced with both speakers introducing their perspectives on the existence of God. Mufti Shamail Nadwi highlighted the importance of rational thought and historical evidence in understanding faith, while Javed Akhtar raised questions about morality, human suffering, and the role of belief in contemporary society. The audience, comprising scholars, students, and enthusiasts, eagerly awaited the exchange of ideas.
Javed Akhtar’s Perspective
Javed Akhtar, a prominent poet and lyricist, expressed skepticism regarding the presence of an all-powerful deity. He emphasized human suffering, social injustice, and the apparent contradictions in religious narratives as points of contemplation. His arguments challenged conventional religious beliefs and urged the audience to consider evidence-based reasoning alongside faith.
Mufti Shamail Nadwi’s Response
In response, Mufti Shamail Nadwi provided thoughtful counterarguments, stressing human free will and responsibility. He explained that suffering and evil often arise from human choices and that religion and science address different aspects of existence. Using classical philosophical and theological arguments, he affirmed the existence of a creator and encouraged reflective thinking.
Audience Engagement and Conclusion
The debate concluded with both speakers receiving appreciation from the audience for their intellectual approach. Social media reactions praised the thoughtful discourse, sparking discussions across India and Pakistan. While the debate did not reach a final conclusion, it encouraged deep reflection on faith, reason, and morality, leaving a lasting impact on attendees and viewers online.
