TLDR;
This video captures the highlights of the Lithmas 25 freethought awards ceremony, celebrating individuals who champion reason, evidence, and humanistic values. The event features the presentation of the "Freethinker of the Year" award to Mr. RF Hussein Terat for his commitment to rational thought and the "Lifetime Achievement Award" to Dr. Taslima Nasrin for her fight against religious dogma and advocacy for human rights. Speeches from the awardees and presenters underscore the importance of critical thinking, freedom of expression, and standing up against oppression.
- Mr. RF Hussein Terat was awarded "Freethinker of the Year" for his rational thought and courage to question convention.
- Dr. Taslima Nasrin received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" for her fight against religious dogma, misogyny, and fundamentalism.
- Both awardees gave inspiring speeches about standing up for reason, human rights, and freedom of expression.
Opening Remarks and Freethinker of the Year Award [0:05]
The ceremony begins with an introduction and a photo session for Rakkesh and Prasad, who are recognised for their commitment to reason and rationality. The highlight of the evening is announced as the "Freethinker of the Year" award for 2025, sponsored by Essence Global Ireland. Dr. KM Sri Kumar, a scholar known for promoting science and countering pseudo-science, is welcomed to present the award.
Presentation to RF Hussein Terat [1:13]
Mr. RF Hussein Terat is announced as the recipient of the "Freethinker of the Year" award for his unwavering commitment to rational thought and his courageous questioning of convention. He is invited to the stage to receive the award from Dr. KM Sri Kumar, which includes a certificate, a memento, and a cash prize.
Dr. KM Sri Kumar's Speech [2:24]
Dr. Sri Kumar reflects on Article 51H of the constitution, which outlines the fundamental duty of citizens to develop scientific temper, humanism, and a spirit of enquiry and reform. He praises Arif Hussein for abandoning his homoeopathic practice upon realising its unscientific basis, despite it being his livelihood. He also commends Hussein for leaving Islam after finding it illogical, despite facing social ostracisation and family disruption, highlighting his courage and reformation.
RF Hussein Terat's Acceptance Speech [4:04]
Mr. Hussein expresses his pride in standing for reason in a world where it is often seen as a crime. He thanks Essence, Litmas 25, and all attendees for the recognition. He highlights the importance of the right to criticise and leave Islam, and to stand for Israel's self-determination, despite threats and ostracisation. Hussein emphasises standing by evidence and reason, even when it leads to losing friends and family, and dedicates the award to those who have corrected and held him accountable. He concludes by advocating for saving Palestine from Hamas and the world from violent Jihadi Islamism, and standing for humanity.
Lifetime Achievement Award Introduction [8:00]
The ceremony moves on to the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 of Essence Global. Professor TJ Joseph, himself a symbol of resilience after being attacked by religious fundamentalists in 2010, is invited to present the award. His courage and commitment to critical inquiry make him a fitting presenter for this honour.
Presentation to Dr. Taslima Nasrin [8:58]
Dr. Taslima Nasrin is announced as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for her fearless voice and inspiring millions worldwide. She is recognised for her uncompromising writings and activism against religious dogma, misogyny, and fundamentalism, and for her unwavering stance on women's rights, secularism, and humanism. Despite facing threats, censorship, and exile, she continues to uphold the values of reason, freedom, and justice.
Professor TJ Joseph's Speech [10:43]
Professor Joseph shares his thoughts on the occasion.
Dr. Taslima Nasrin's Acceptance Speech [12:48]
Dr. Nasrin expresses her gratitude for receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award among atheists, rationalists, secularists, and freethinkers, considering it a great honour. She declares the gathering a declaration of minds unafraid of truth and hearts free from superstition. Nasrin clarifies that while belief is personal, criticism is essential, and her criticism is proportionate to the harm a religion inflicts, particularly focusing on religions whose extremists terrify the world and oppress women.
She defends her focus on criticising Islam by pointing out the current reality of religious extremism and oppression connected to it. She shares her personal journey of discovering atheism through reading the Quran and her belief that it is incompatible with human rights and democracy. Nasrin argues for the necessity of criticising Islam to replace Quranic education with secular education and end Islam-based politics, advocating for women's rights and freedom of expression. She recounts her exile for stating that religious scriptures are outdated and finds solace in the solidarity and love of rationalists and freethinkers. She vows to continue fighting against fundamentalism and for freedom, equality, and human dignity, urging others to stand firm and speak out.
Closing Remarks [36:35]
The awards ceremony concludes with thanks to Dr. Nasrin and Professor Joseph, and a reminder that voices of courage cannot be silenced. The audience is encouraged to keep the flame of reason, freedom, and humanism alive. All awardees and presenters are invited back to the stage for a final photo session, followed by the wrapping up of the ceremony.