A public debate on the question “Does God Exist?” featuring renowned lyricist and rationalist Javed Akhtar and Islamic scholar Mufti Shamail Nadwi has sparked widespread discussion both offline and on social media. The event was held in New Delhi and moderated by senior journalist Saurabh Dwivedi.
During the discussion, Javed Akhtar reiterated his long-held atheist views, questioning the idea of an all-powerful and benevolent God in the presence of widespread human suffering. Referring to global conflicts and violence, Akhtar argued that such realities raise serious moral and philosophical questions about divine justice.
Mufti Shamail Nadwi responded by emphasizing the concepts of free will, human responsibility, and moral accountability. He stated that acts of violence and injustice are the result of human choices rather than divine will, and argued that faith and science operate in different domains. Nadwi maintained that belief in God provides moral structure and purpose rather than direct intervention in every human action.
The debate drew a strong reaction online, with viewers expressing mixed opinions. While some social media users felt Mufti Shamail Nadwi presented a stronger case, others supported Javed Akhtar’s arguments. However, major news organizations reporting on the event did not declare any official winner, describing the discussion as an exchange of contrasting worldviews rather than a competitive contest.
Observers noted that the debate highlighted the importance of dialogue and respectful disagreement on deeply sensitive subjects such as faith, belief, and skepticism. The event has since become one of the most discussed intellectual exchanges in recent times, reflecting India’s diverse perspectives on religion and philosophy.