Banu Mushtaq to Inaugurate Mysuru Dasara 2025 Amid BJP Concerns

Hassan, Karnataka, Aug 26 (PTI) — International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq has been invited to inaugurate the globally renowned 'Mysuru Dasara-2025' celebrations. She has expressed her respect for the festival and for Goddess Chamundeshwari amidst objections from BJP leaders over the state government's decision.

BJP leaders, including state President B Y Vijayendra and Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, had questioned Mushtaq's reverence for Goddess Chamundeshwari. This was prompted by a past video where Mushtaq expressed concerns about worshipping the Kannada language as "Goddess Bhuvaneshwari", citing it as exclusionary to minorities.

Dasara is traditionally inaugurated by anointing the Chamundeshwari goddess idol with flowers, accompanied by Vedic chants at the Chamundi Hills temple. This ritual underscores its significance to Mysuru's culture and royalty.

"Being invited to inaugurate Dasara is truly joyful. You may call Chamundeshwari 'Taayi' (mother), and I respect those emotions. I also honor it being referred to as 'Naada Habba' (state festival)," Mushtaq stated after receiving a traditional offering from Bengaluru's 'Ammana Madilu' organization. She noted her childhood experiences of attending Dasara with her parents and witnessing the 'Jamboo Savari,' a procession featuring decked-out elephants on Vijaydashami.

The government recently announced Mushtaq's role in inaugurating the Mysuru Dasara 2025 festivities. As 'Nada Habba', the event will showcase Karnataka's rich culture and traditions while echoing the royal city's historic pomp and splendor.

This year's festivities will commence in Mysuru on September 22 and conclude on 'Vijayadashami' on October 2.