Karnataka High Court Rejects Petitions Against Banu Mushtaq Inaugurating Mysuru Dussehra
In a big decision, the Karnataka High Court has dismissed three petitions challenging the state government’s choice of Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to kick off the famous Mysuru Dussehra festival. The court heard the case on Monday and made it clear that no one’s rights were hurt by the move.
The bench, led by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Joshi, threw out the pleas from former BJP MP Pratap Simha and two others. They argued that inviting Banu Mushtaq went against traditions, but the judges didn’t buy it. Chief Justice Bakhru even said, "In this country, expressing opinions isn’t a crime. Tell us exactly which constitutional right has been violated."
The government’s lawyer, Advocate General Shashikiran Shetty, pushed for fines on the petitioners, but the court said no. The Chief Justice pointed out that Vijaya Dashami, or Dussehra, celebrates good over evil and happens all over India—it’s not just about one group’s rules.
Why the Controversy Over Banu Mushtaq and Dussehra Inauguration?
The whole drama started in August when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Banu Mushtaq as the inaugurator for the 2024 Mysuru Dussehra celebrations. This historic festival, known as the "Nada Habba" or festival of the state, runs from September 22 to October 2. It’s a massive event in Mysuru, drawing crowds for its royal processions, music, and rituals honoring Goddess Chamundeshwari.
Siddaramaiah praised her big time. "Banu Mushtaq is a proud daughter of Karnataka from Hassan. Her book Hrudaya Deepa won the Booker Prize—huge honor for our state! She’s fought for farmers, Kannada rights, and progressive causes. And hey, it’s special to have a woman lead the Dussehra inauguration this year."
But not everyone cheered. BJP leaders and Hindu groups slammed the decision. They claimed Banu Mushtaq made anti-Hindu remarks and criticized the Kannada language. In speeches, she reportedly opposed linking Kannada to Goddess Bhuvaneshwari or the flag’s yellow (haldi) and red (sindoor) colors to Hindu symbols. The BJP shared video clips and English translations to back this up.
Pratap Simha, in his petition, said the inauguration involves floral tributes to the goddess, Vedic chants, and rituals—stuff that should be done by someone who respects Hindu traditions. He accused the government of ignoring consultations and even noted opposition from Mysuru’s royal family. Simha added, "She’s against Kannada too, and this hurts our sentiments."
Other petitions came from Bengaluru resident H.S. Gourav, industrialist T. Girish Kumar, and Abhinava Bharat Party’s R. Sowmya. They wanted the court to scrap the invite and say Dussehra inaugurations must follow "Hindu Agamic" practices by Hindu dignitaries only.
Hindu outfits went further—they met Banu Mushtaq at home and begged her to say no, saying it would offend religious feelings.
Government’s Stand on Mysuru Dussehra 2024
The Congress government didn’t budge. They see Dussehra as a cultural bash for everyone, not just a religious one. Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar stirred more buzz by saying, "Chamundi Hills isn’t just for Hindus—it’s for all." The state insists Banu Mushtaq’s invite honors her achievements and keeps the festival inclusive.
This ruling means the show goes on as planned. The Mysuru Dussehra, a UNESCO-recognized event, will feature Banu Mushtaq lighting the lamp on day one. For many, it’s a win for free speech and diversity; for critics, it’s a clash over tradition in Karnataka politics.
As the festival nears, expect more buzz—will it unite or divide? Stay tuned for updates on this hot Karnataka news story.
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