The selection of Banu Mushtaq for the inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2025 has sparked significant controversy. Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra has questioned the Congress-led state government’s decision to overlook another Booker Prize winner, Deepa Bhasthi, for the event. Karnataka High Court Delays MUDA Case Hearing Against CM Siddaramaiah for Seventh Time..!
Speaking at a press conference, Vijayendra criticized the government for sidelining Bhasthi, who, alongside Mushtaq, received the Booker Prize for her translation work. Vijayendra condemned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s statement that Mushtaq need not apply turmeric and kumkum for the event, calling it disrespectful to the Hindu traditions associated with Dasara.
He also criticized Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s remark that Chamundi Hills does not exclusively belong to Hindus, labeling it as inappropriate. Linking the issue to the Dharmasthala controversy, Vijayendra highlighted the success of the “Dharmasthala Chalo” protest, which saw participation from over one lakh people.
He challenged Siddaramaiah to clarify his stance whether he supports Dharmasthala’s Dharmadhikari Veerendra Heggade or the Soujanya case. Asserting his allegiance to “crores of Manjunatha devotees,” Vijayendra warned Siddaramaiah against hurting the sentiments of Dharmasthala’s devotees.Siddaramaiah Questions BJP's Stance on Sowjanya Case: "Are They Siding with the Accused or the Victim?"
The controversy stems from Mushtaq’s selection, with the BJP and Hindu organizations alleging that some of her statements are against Hindu traditions and Kannada cultural symbols. However, the Congress government has defended Mushtaq’s literary achievements and dismissed the opposition as politically motivated.Banu Mushtaq’s Dasara Inauguration Selection: Religious Sentiments vs. Literary Honor Controversy..!