The Times Of India Podcast 'It is the number of idiots that give dignity to a stupid idea'
Sep 5, 2025
Javed Akhtar, a famed poet, lyricist, and screenwriter known for his atheistic views, dives into the controversy surrounding his withdrawn invitation to an Urdu literature festival. He passionately discusses the claim of ownership over language by communities and confidently embraces criticism from all religious groups. Exploring the nuances of freedom of expression, he highlights the societal challenges atheists face in India. Akhtar articulates complex ideas about faith versus belief and advocates for thoughtful dialogue on spirituality that transcends rigid religious boundaries.
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Episode notes
No Public Platform For Atheism
- Javed Akhtar notes religious advocacy dominates public media while atheists have no equivalent platform.
- He argues atheists should have the same right to publicly propagate disbelief as believers do.
Faith Versus Reason
- Akhtar differentiates belief built on evidence from faith that requires no reason.
- He says faith resists argument and thus invites emotional defenses rather than rational debate.
Limit Public Critique Strategically
- Akhtar recommends disbelievers temper public criticism out of respect to avoid unnecessary conflict.
- He says many atheists self-censor and speak far less than they truly believe.
