Javed Akhtar is not just known as a writer of songs and diverse cinematic stories but at the same time is known for raising an unflinching voice advocating the values of secularism and freedom of speech. He was barely applauded back home with the growth of fringe elements in our society. But his thoughts reached the other side of the world giving him the honour with the prestigious award called Richard Dawkins Award.
He is the latest actor in B Town to receive this coveted award who is now the only Indian to get this recognition. This award is given to people who have excelled in the field of sciences, education, scholarship or entertainment. He is the man who voiced for things like values of secularism. While talking about the same, the writer said that he was not expecting such a reward but pleased to get for the ideology he has been talking to the world. He is happy that a huge institution in the world noticed his words and writings.
We see the award – Richard Dawkins Award reaching to India in tough times and particularly when we see the country reeling under the tough tide of fanaticism and efforts to dissent the voices. He further added saying that this award tells the world that one can get awards for thoughts and ideas which are not so popular in their own country. Talking about the award, actress Shabana Azmi her wife, said that she is thrilled to see this happening.Â
