Atheist Javed Akhtar Chants 'Jai Siya Ram', Says Democracy Existed In India Because Of Hindus

Well-known writer Javed Akhtar, a self-proclaimed atheist, has said that Lord Ram and Sita are not confined to being Hindu deities but are integral to the cultural heritage of India.

Speaking at the Deepotsav programme organised by Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) in Mumbai, Akhtar emphasized that he regards Ram and Sita as the cultural treasures of the nation. He further stated that the Ramayan holds significance as part of our cultural heritage and is a subject of collective interest.

"Some have always been intolerant. Hindus are not like that. They have this great quality of being generous and large-hearted. Do not lose that, or else you will become like others," the writer said, stating that "democracy in India exists because of Hindu culture and tradition."

He also chanted 'Jai Siya Ram' slogans. Reflecting on his childhood in Lucknow, he reminisced about observing wealthy individuals who would exchange greetings with "good morning." In contrast, he noted that the common man passing by on the road would offer greetings with 'Jai Siya Ram.'

"Therefore, it is a sin to think of Sita and Rama separately. The word Siya Ram is a symbol of love and unity. Siya and Ram were done by only one. His name was Ravana. So the one who does differently will be Ravana. So you chant Jai Siya Ram three times with me. Say Jai Siya Ram from today," he added.

He said that freedom of expression is diminishing and cited a scene from 'Sholay' which could have courted controversy in this era. "If our film Sholay had been made in today's time, there would have been controversy over the temple scene. Perhaps Salim Sahab and I would not have been able to write that scene," he added.

Talking about Hindus, he said that they have always been tolerant. "The special thing about Hindus is that there was always a greatness in their hearts. But if you finish it, you become like others. We have learned the way you have lived. It won't work if you're going to leave that quality," he added.

He continued, "Even if you don't believe in anyone, you are a Hindu, that is Hindu culture. It has given us the attitude of democracy. On the contrary, it is wrong to think that I am right and everyone else is wrong. Then what you have been taught is wrong."