Is the Karnataka Government's Decision to Have Booker Prize Winner Mushtaq Inaugurate Mysuru Dussehra Controversial?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka High Court is set to review a petition challenging the government's decision to invite Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate Mysuru Dussehra. Former BJP MP Pratap Simha argues that her participation undermines Hindu traditions.
Key Takeaways
- Petition filed in Karnataka HC against Banu Mushtaq's inauguration.
- Concerns about Hindu traditions being undermined.
- Banu Mushtaq's literary achievements are highlighted.
- Government defends the decision as inclusive of all communities.
- Protests organized by Hindu groups in reaction.
Bengaluru, Sep 6 (NationPress) In a significant development concerning the Mysuru Dussehra celebrations in Karnataka, former BJP MP Pratap Simha has approached the High Court to challenge the state government's choice of Booker Prize laureate Banu Mushtaq as the inaugural guest for this historic festival.
This legal action follows the Karnataka government's formal invitation extended to Banu Mushtaq to commence the festivities.
Pratap Simha, questioning the government's move, argued in court that the Dussehra inauguration requires floral tributes to the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari.
He emphasized that this tradition includes the recitation of Vedas, chanting of mantras, and various religious rituals, while alleging that Banu Mushtaq holds anti-Hindu sentiments.
“The government has chosen Banu Mushtaq without proper discussions. She has also voiced opinions against the Kannada language,” Pratap Simha claimed.
In addition, he noted that the royal family of Mysuru has expressed their disapproval of the Karnataka government’s decision.
Simha further stated that the government's choice has offended the sentiments of the Hindu community.
In response, the Hindu Jagarana Vedike has organized a ‘Mysuru Chalo’ protest on September 9, opposing Banu Mushtaq’s inauguration of Dussehra. This rally will proceed from Kurubarahalli in Mysuru to Chamundi Hills.
Previously, members of Hindu organizations visited Banu Mushtaq at her home, presenting a memorandum asking her to reject the invitation to inaugurate the traditional Dussehra festival, asserting it would offend Hindu religious sentiments.
On August 22, during the announcement, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated, “Banu Mushtaq, a celebrated writer from Hassan, Karnataka, will inaugurate the renowned Dussehra Mahotsav this year. The festivities are set to commence on September 22, culminating in the celebration of Vijaya Dashami on October 2. It is a remarkable occasion as she is a Booker awardee.”
He further remarked, “Banu Mushtaq’s literary piece 'Hrudaya Deepa' won the International Booker Prize, which brings pride to Karnataka. She has a history of involvement with farmers' organizations, Kannada movements, and progressive initiatives. It is significant to have a woman inaugurate Dussehra.”
However, the BJP released a video in which Banu Mushtaq allegedly states that equating the Kannada language with goddess Bhuvaneshwari and the yellow and red of the Kannada flag with turmeric and 'sindoor' is misguided.
They argued that she does not honor Hindu sentiments and should not inaugurate the Dussehra celebrations.
The government, nonetheless, maintains that Mysuru Dussehra is a celebration of the land and not merely a religious affair.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of balancing tradition and modernity. The controversy surrounding Banu Mushtaq's inauguration of Mysuru Dussehra reflects the ongoing dialogue about cultural representation in our festivals. It is crucial to address both the sentiments of the Hindu community and the achievements of individuals like Mushtaq, fostering an inclusive narrative.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue regarding Banu Mushtaq's inauguration?
The main issue is the petition filed by former BJP MP Pratap Simha in the Karnataka High Court, challenging the government's decision to have Banu Mushtaq, a Booker Prize winner, inaugurate the Mysuru Dussehra festival, claiming it undermines Hindu traditions.
Who filed the petition against the inauguration?
The petition was filed by former BJP MP Pratap Simha.
What are the concerns raised in the petition?
The concerns include allegations that Banu Mushtaq holds anti-Hindu views and that her selection was made without proper consultations, which could offend Hindu sentiments.
What is the response from the Karnataka government?
The Karnataka government maintains that Mysuru Dussehra is a celebration of the land and not strictly a religious event.
What actions have been taken by Hindu organizations?
Hindu organizations, including the Hindu Jagarana Vedike, have organized protests and urged Banu Mushtaq to decline the invitation.
