The decision regarding the inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2025 has ignited a fiery debate across Karnataka. A statement by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and the sharp response from Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, a member of the Mysore royal family, have stirred significant controversy on social media.On August 26, Congress leader DK Shivakumar stated that Goddess Chamundeshwari and her temple are not exclusive to Hindus but belong to people of all faiths.
His remarks came amid opposition to the government’s decision to invite international Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate the Dasara festivities at Chamundi Hills.According to Shivakumar, Goddess Chamundeshwari is the presiding deity of the region, and her temple is visited by people of all religions who offer prayers. He emphasized that the goddess does not belong to any single faith and that Dasara is a universal festival, attracting lakhs of visitors from India and abroad.
In a social media post, Shivakumar wrote, “Chamundi Hills is accessible to people of all religions. Our Goddess Durga alleviates everyone’s troubles. The royal family itself has permitted this inclusive celebration, which is proof enough. There’s no need to politicize religion, and the goddess would not approve of it.”However, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, a member of the Mysore royal family and a parliamentarian, expressed strong disapproval of Shivakumar’s statement.
He argued that Dasara is deeply rooted in Hindu religious traditions and that attempts to secularize it are inappropriate.This controversy has reignited the debate over whether Dasara is a religious festival or a regional cultural celebration. The government’s decision, the royal family’s stance, and the statements of political leaders are likely to fuel further discussions in the coming days.