Will the SC Review the Petition Against Booker Prize Winner Banu Mushtaq's Invitation to Inaugurate Mysuru Dasara Festival?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A pivotal Supreme Court hearing awaits today as a two-judge Bench evaluates a petition challenging the Karnataka government's decision to invite Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festival. This controversial decision stirs a debate over tradition and inclusivity. Will the court uphold the invitation or align with the opposition's objections?
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court is hearing a petition regarding Banu Mushtaq's invitation to Mysuru Dasara.
- Opposition parties have raised concerns about the decision based on faith.
- The Karnataka High Court previously dismissed similar challenges.
- The Mysuru Dasara is a cultural festival, not strictly religious.
- The outcome of the petition could reshape future festival inaugurations.
New Delhi, Sep 19 (NationPress) A two-judge Bench of the Supreme Court is set to deliberate on a petition today that aims to halt the Karnataka government's decision to have International Booker Prize laureate Banu Mushtaq inaugurate the renowned Mysuru Dasara festival.
According to the causelist available on the apex court's website, Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta will hear the case today.
On Thursday, Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai approved the urgent listing of the Special Leave Petition (SLP) for Friday after it was presented for immediate consideration.
The SLP challenges the Karnataka High Court's dismissal of Public Interest Litigations (PILs) that questioned the invitation extended to Banu Mushtaq for the inauguration.
Traditionally, floral tributes are offered to Goddess Chamundeshwari during the inauguration of the Mysuru Dasara, and the opposition party, BJP, has raised concerns regarding Mushtaq’s participation due to her differing faith.
In a ruling delivered on September 15, a Bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Joshi of the Karnataka High Court noted that no rights were infringed and highlighted that the Vijaya Dashami festival is celebrated nationwide, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Nevertheless, the opposition has labeled the state government's decision to invite Mushtaq as “incorrect,” with petitioners alleging that the Booker Prize winner has made anti-Hindu statements and disparaging remarks about the Kannada language.
One of the PILs, submitted by Bengaluru resident H.S. Gourav, argued that the inauguration of Dussehra should be regarded as an essential aspect of Hindu tradition, necessitating the involvement of Hindu dignitaries.
The Karnataka government, however, asserts that the Mysuru Dasara is a celebration of the region and not strictly a religious affair.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize that the Mysuru Dasara festival holds cultural significance beyond religious boundaries. The discussions surrounding the invitation to Banu Mushtaq highlight the complexities of tradition in modern society. As we await the Supreme Court's verdict, it is essential to approach this matter with an open mind, considering diverse perspectives while respecting established customs.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mysuru Dasara festival?
The Mysuru Dasara festival is a grand celebration held annually in Mysuru, Karnataka, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It involves a series of events, including processions, cultural performances, and rituals dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari.
Who is Banu Mushtaq?
Banu Mushtaq is an acclaimed author who won the International Booker Prize for her literary contributions. Her invitation to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festival has sparked a significant debate regarding cultural representation.
Why is there opposition to Banu Mushtaq's invitation?
The opposition, particularly from the BJP, argues that having Banu Mushtaq, who practices a different faith, inaugurate a festival traditionally associated with Hindu customs is inappropriate.
What was the Karnataka High Court's stance on this issue?
The Karnataka High Court dismissed the PILs challenging Mushtaq's invitation, stating that no rights had been violated and emphasizing that the festival is celebrated across various communities in India.
What happens next with the petition?
The Supreme Court will hear the petition today, and its decision will determine whether the Karnataka government's invitation to Banu Mushtaq will proceed or be put on hold.
