On 25 June 2026, a seminar on the theme “The Relationship Between Science, Religion, and Literature” was held at Government College for Women, Vazhuthacaud, Trivandrum, under the auspices of the Under the Greenwood Tree English Club, in collaboration with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Trivandrum. The programme was attended by dignitaries from various fields.

Mr Husam Ahmed, National Representative of the Community, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the pivotal role religion has played in the advancement and progress of science throughout human history. Referring to examples from Greek civilisation, ancient Indian philosophy, and the Islamic Golden Age, he explained how the torch of scientific inquiry was carried forward by people of faith, while contributions to science from irreligious thinkers were largely, if not completely, absent until the industrialisation of science in the late 19^th century.

Explaining how the Holy Quran inspires humanity towards scientific exploration, he stated that religion is the Word of God, while science is the work of God. Therefore, there can be no fundamental contradiction between genuine revelation and established scientific facts. If an apparent contradiction arises, he explained, the error must lie in either the interpretation of revelation or the scientific understanding, rather than in the actual Word or work of God.

Addressing the role of literature, he specifically presented the case of Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya, the magnum opus of the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad^as. He explained that the work was written at a time when religious circles generally maintained a strict separation between matters of faith and rational inquiry, while on the other hand, works such as Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species were challenging traditional religious understandings. Against this backdrop, Barahin-e-Ahmadiyya established the complementary roles of revelation and rationality in the pursuit of true knowledge.

Following the address, attendees were given an opportunity to share their views and ask questions. The questions raised were addressed by the speaker, leading to an engaging exchange of ideas among the participants.

The seminar proved to be a fruitful and thought-provoking occasion, particularly in addressing the contemporary misconception that religion and science are inherently incompatible. It provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the harmonious relationship between faith, reason, scientific inquiry, and literature.