Controversy Surrounds Invitation of Banu Mushtaq to Inaugurate Mysuru Dasara Festival
Renowned author and International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq has found herself at the center of a heated debate following her invitation to inaugurate the prestigious Mysuru Dasara festival in Karnataka, India.
The Festivities and the Furor
Last week, the Congress government of Karnataka announced that Mushtaq, who recently clinched the coveted Prize for her work “Heart Lamp,” would kick off the 10-day extravaganza of Mysuru Dasara in Mysuru (formerly Mysore).
Known as Naada Habba, this annual festival draws crowds with its cultural performances, elephant parades, exhibitions, and fireworks, celebrating the rich heritage of the region.
Political Backlash
However, the decision to have Mushtaq inaugurate the festival was met with criticism from some Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, who argued that a Muslim author should not be leading a Hindu festival.
Despite Dussehra being a Hindu festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, Mysuru Dasara is a state-run event open to people of all beliefs.
Author’s Response
Expressing her gratitude for the invitation, Mushtaq emphasized her deep connection to the festival, having cherished it since her childhood days.
However, the controversy persisted, fueled by objections to Mushtaq’s views on Hindu goddess Bhuvaneshwari and her critical stance on the Hinduization of the Kannada language.
The Booker Winner’s Impact
Being the first Kannada language author to win the International Booker Prize, Mushtaq’s acclaimed book “Heart Lamp” was lauded for its poignant portrayal of women navigating challenges in a patriarchal society.
While some BJP leaders acknowledged Mushtaq’s literary prowess, they demanded clarity on her stance towards the festival’s deities before her participation.
Defending Inclusivity
Supporters of Mushtaq’s invitation argue that Mysuru Dasara should remain open to all, rejecting attempts to turn it into a religiously exclusive event.
Amidst the uproar, Mushtaq stood firm, refusing to withdraw from the event and urging politicians to avoid unnecessary politicization.
“Mysuru Dasara is a secular festival, and Banu’s participation should be celebrated as a step towards inclusivity,” remarked poet Mamta Sagar.
Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister also defended the decision, underlining the festival’s tradition of welcoming diversity.
As the debate rages on, the clash between preserving the festival’s essence and preventing its appropriation for political gains continues.
