Synopsis: Dasara controversy flares up as Muslim author Banu Mushtaq, a Booker Prize winner, is invited to inaugurate Mysuru festival. BJP leaders question the decision, while the author confirms attendance.
By Qalam Times News Network | August 25, 2025
Invitation Sparks Political Debate
Dasara has become the center of a heated political row in Karnataka after the government invited Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Mysuru festivities. BJP leader Pratap Simha objected, arguing that a religious festival should not be inaugurated by someone outside the Hindu faith. Mushtaq, however, confirmed she had accepted the invitation and said, “I have been invited. Only the invitee has to comment on this.”
Chief Minister’s Announcement
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Friday that Banu Mushtaq, a 77-year-old author from Hassan, will inaugurate this year’s world-famous Dasara Mahotsav. The celebrations will begin on September 22 and culminate with Vijaya Dashami on October 2. Siddaramaiah highlighted her achievements, noting that her award-winning anthology Hrudaya Deepa, which won the Booker Prize, sheds light on the lives of Muslim women and addresses patriarchy and gender inequality. He added, “It is significant that a woman from Karnataka inaugurates the Dasara festivities.”
BJP Questions the Move
Former BJP MP Pratap Simha acknowledged Mushtaq’s literary contributions but insisted Dasara is not a secular event. “Dasara is 100 percent a reflection of our religion. This tradition dates back to the Vijayanagara empire and rituals continue at the Mysuru palace. Does Banu Mushtaq believe in Goddess Chamundeshwari?” he asked. State BJP chief BY Vijayendra also questioned why Deepa Bhasthi, who translated Mushtaq’s work, was not invited despite sharing the Booker Prize recognition.
Author Stays Silent on Remarks
While BJP leaders continue to raise objections, Banu Mushtaq has chosen not to engage with their remarks. She has confirmed only her acceptance of the state government’s invitation, making it clear she will attend and inaugurate the Dasar
