Karnataka BJP Leaders Question Banu Mushtaq's Role in Dasara

Bengaluru, Aug 25 (PTI) Senior BJP leaders, along with an expelled MLA, have raised concerns regarding the Karnataka government's decision to have renowned Booker Prize-winning author and activist Banu Mushtaq inaugurate this year's renowned Mysuru Dasara festivities. This traditional event, deeply rooted in religious practices, has become a point of contention.

Former minister and BJP MLC C T Ravi questioned the appropriateness of having someone with an unclear religious stance lead a religious ceremony. Meanwhile, former Mysuru MP Pratap Simha expressed that while Mushtaq is suitable for literary events, Dasara, which begins with a pooja to Goddess Chamundeshwari, is another matter entirely.

"I personally respect Banu Mushtaq for her accomplishments. It's fitting for her to chair the Akhila Bharata Kannada Sahitya Sammelana, but not Dasara, which begins with offerings to Goddess Chamundeshwari," Simha said, during an interaction with reporters in Mysuru.

Furthermore, MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal, who previously faced expulsion from BJP and represents Vijayapura, posted on X sharing, "I greatly respect Banu Mushtaq madam as a writer and activist. However, her role in inaugurating Dasara conflicts with her religious beliefs."

He continued, "Madam needs to clarify her current religious stance. Does she adhere to Islam, which believes in a singular God, or does she now follow a belief where diverse paths lead to moksha?" He emphasized that clarity is crucial before she participates in the inaugural rituals.

"Without such clarification, I find it inappropriate for Banu Mushtaq madam to inaugurate Dasara. She may certainly take part in cultural or literary events during the festival, but the religious inauguration requires one who aligns with its essence," Yatnal commented, including the hashtag #KarnatakaDasara2025.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced that Banu Mushtaq would be inaugurating the Nada Habba Dasara celebrations, which traditionally commence with rituals at the Chamundi Hill temple.

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