Bengaluru, August 27, 2025 —
A political storm has erupted in Karnataka over the government’s decision to invite Booker Prize-winning author and activist Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the famed Mysuru Dasara festival. What began as a cultural celebration has now turned into a heated war of words between the ruling Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje on Tuesday sharply criticized Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for his comments supporting the invite. “Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s remark that Chamundeshwari Temple does not belong to Hindus is highly condemnable,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Those who keep preaching about secularism must realize Temples are not ‘secular spaces,’ they are sacred institutions that rightfully belong to Hindus.”

Karandlaje further alleged that Shivakumar’s statement was an attempt to appease the Congress high command, adding that the party has consistently taken positions against Hindu interests. “The Congress party’s tone, tenor, and stance have been anti-Hindu. By inviting Banu Mushtaq, who openly rejects our Gods, they have made their mindset clear,” her statement read.

BJP’s Objections Intensify

The BJP has strongly opposed the invitation, with several leaders raising questions over why a Muslim author should be asked to inaugurate a Hindu religious celebration. Mysuru MP Pratap Simha declared that “Dasara celebration is not a secular event, it’s a religious one.” He further questioned, “Does Banu Mushtaq believe in Goddess Chamundeshwari? And does she follow our rituals?”

State BJP president BY Vijayendra also expressed displeasure, questioning why Deepa Bhasthi, the translator of Mushtaq’s work, was not invited despite sharing the Booker Prize recognition. “We respect Banu Mushtaq, but if she accepts Hindu traditions, then fine. Why was only she invited and not her translator?” he asked.

Congress Defends Invite

Deputy CM Shivakumar stood by the government’s decision, stating that Mysuru Dasara is a celebration for all communities. “In Hindu temples, minorities also visit. We go to mosques and churches. Who can stop it? Chamundi Hills and Goddess Chamundeshwari are there for everyone, it’s not just Hindu property,” he said.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had earlier defended the invite, calling Mushtaq’s Booker Prize win a matter of pride for Karnataka. “She is a daughter of this soil, and her achievement is for the entire state,” he said.

Author Responds to Controversy

Amid the political tussle, Banu Mushtaq herself expressed disappointment at the controversy surrounding her invite. Confirming that she would attend, she emphasized her respect for Goddess Chamundeshwari and the festival. “Calling Dasara Naada Habba (state festival) and Goddess Chamundeshwari Taayi (mother) is part of our culture. I too like and respect this festival and participate with affection,” she said.

She also clarified that her earlier remarks about Kannada’s personification had been distorted, insisting that active politicians should exercise caution about which issues to politicize.

A Festival Overshadowed

Mysuru Dasara, traditionally celebrated with grandeur as Karnataka’s state festival, is now mired in political and religious debate. What should have been a moment of cultural pride — with an award-winning Kannadiga author inaugurating the festivities — has instead sparked a clash over religion, identity, and secularism.

As the controversy grows, the festival risks being overshadowed by political rhetoric, reflecting once again how cultural platforms in India can become battlegrounds for larger ideological wars.
Dasara Invite Sparks Political Row

Karnataka’s decision to invite Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Mysuru Dasara festival has triggered a storm. BJP leaders slammed the move, with Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje insisting “Temples are not secular spaces, they belong to Hindus.”

Congress leaders defended the invite, saying Dasara is for all communities, while Mushtaq herself affirmed her respect for Goddess Chamundeshwari and the festival. What should have been a cultural celebration is now caught in a political crossfire.