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Key Points

The Mysuru district administration has officially invited Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the historic Dussehra festivities on September 22. The decision has sparked a political controversy, with BJP leaders questioning her selection and alleging disrespect to local traditions. Despite the tensions, the Congress-led government stands firm in its choice, emphasizing cultural inclusivity. Banu Mushtaq herself has accepted the invitation graciously, highlighting the festival's universal spirit.

Key Points: Banu Mushtaq Invited to Mysuru Dussehra Fest Amid Controversy

  • Congress government officially invites Banu Mushtaq to Dussehra inauguration
  • BJP criticizes selection, claims disrespect to Goddess Chamundeshwari
  • Mysuru administration extends formal invitation with traditional honors
  • Mushtaq graciously accepts and gifts her Booker Prize-winning book
3 min read

Amid row, Mysuru admin hands over official invitation to Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate Dussehra festivities

Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq officially invited to inaugurate historic Mysuru Dussehra celebrations despite political tensions

"Dussehra is a festival celebrated in every household; it is truly a festival of the land. - Banu Mushtaq"

Bengaluru, Sep 3

Amid the row surrounding the inauguration of the historic Dussehra festivities, the district administration of Mysuru visited the residence of Booker Prize awardee Banu Mushtaq at Ameer Mohalla in Karnataka's Hassan city on Wednesday. During the visit, Mushtaq was handed over the official invitation to inaugurate Dussehra, and she was also felicitated.

The Congress-led government's decision to name Banu Mushtaq for the inauguration of Dussehra had stirred a major controversy in the state.

The BJP questioned the move, claiming that Banu Mushtaq "does not respect" Goddess Chamundeshwari or the idea of equating the Kannada language with the goddess. BJP leaders further alleged that the name of Deepa Bhasti, the translator of Banu Mushtaq's Booker-winning book, was overlooked because she is a Hindu.

The delegation, led by Mysuru Deputy Commissioner Laxmikanth Reddy, presented her with a bouquet, a traditional Mysuru Peta (headgear), a shawl, and a memento, while formally inviting her to inaugurate the festivities.

In return, Banu Mushtaq gifted a copy of her Booker award winning book 'Heart Lamp', inscribing a congratulatory note on the first page. Her family members were present on the occasion. She will inaugurate the renowned Dussehra festivities on September 22.

Speaking to reporters at Banu Mushtaq's residence, Deputy Commissioner Laxmikanth Reddy said: "As you are aware, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced the name of Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Dusshera festivities atop Chamundi Hills in Mysuru, and directed us to extend the invitation to her respectfully."

"As per these directions, the full district administration, including the CEO, Corporation Commissioner, and members of the Dussehra Welcome Committee, came to Hassan and extended the invitation. Banu Mushtaq madam has joyfully agreed to inaugurate Dussehra on September 22 in Mysuru. I want to thank her for consenting to inaugurate this historic event," Reddy stated.

Expressing her gratitude, Banu Mushtaq said: "I want to convey my thanks for inviting me. There is no problem. Dusshera is a festival celebrated in every household; it is truly a festival of the land."

Meanwhile, former Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and BJP legislator C.N. Ashwath Narayan has stated that the state government has invited Banu Mushtaq only to create controversy.

"Banu Mushtaq does not respect goddess. If you want to carry out traditional rituals while inauguration of Dussehra, it is not appropriate."

Congress MLA Kadaluru Uday said that the BJP was trying to sow the seeds of poison in the society.

"Why not Banu Mushtaq? Does she not belong to Karnataka? For every issue, they will bring up caste and religion," he stated.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has lived in Mysuru for years, I've always admired how Dussehra brings everyone together. The controversy seems unnecessary - art and literature transcend religious boundaries.
P
Priya S
While I respect Banu Mushtaq's literary achievements, maybe the government could have chosen someone who actively participates in Dussehra traditions? Just a thought to avoid unnecessary tensions during our festival.
V
Vikram M
BJP is making a mountain out of a molehill. Dussehra is about good over evil, and what's more evil than dividing people over religion? Kudos to the administration for handling this gracefully.
A
Ananya R
Her response was so graceful - "Dussehra is a festival celebrated in every household." That's the spirit! Let's focus on the festival's message rather than who inaugurates it. Jai Chamundeshwari! 🎉
M
Michael C
Visiting international tourist here - I've attended Mysuru Dussehra before. The inclusivity shown by inviting a Booker Prize winner, regardless of background, actually makes me more interested in attending again. Well done Karnataka!

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