The Karnataka government appointed Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq as the chief guest for Mysuru Dasara. A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court, alleging a violation of traditions. The matter is now awaiting a hearing by the Supreme Court.
New Delhi: Karnataka's famous Mysuru Dasara is in the headlines this time not just because of its grand organization, but also due to a major controversy. The Karnataka government decided to make Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq the chief guest for the inauguration of the Dasara festival, which begins on September 22. The controversy surrounding this decision is deepening, and the matter has reached the Supreme Court.
Where Did the Controversy Begin?
Mysuru Dasara, known as "Nada Habba" or the state festival, is celebrated with great pomp every year. The festivities commence at the Chamundeshwari Temple, where prayers are offered to the idol of the Goddess amid a shower of flowers and Vedic chants.
Petitioners allege that the entire ritual can only be performed according to Hindu tradition. They argue that the inclusion of a non-Hindu individual would constitute a violation of this tradition. It is on this basis that opposition to Banu Mushtaq being made the chief guest began.
What Did the Petition State?
The petitioners have argued in the Supreme Court that the rituals performed at the Chamundeshwari Temple are conducted according to "Agamic traditions." Under this tradition, prayers, lighting of lamps, and offering of fruits and flowers can only be performed by Hindus. They contend that this is a religious practice protected under Article 25 and that including a person from an outside religion would hurt religious sentiments.
The petitioners also alleged that some of Banu Mushtaq's past statements have been against Hinduism and Kannada culture. Therefore, her selection is seen as a disrespect to religious and cultural traditions.
High Court Had Dismissed Petitions
Previously, the matter was also challenged in the Karnataka High Court. Several individuals, including former BJP MP Pratap Simha, had filed four public interest litigations (PILs).
However, on September 15, the High Court dismissed all petitions. The court stated that the petitioners failed to prove that appointing Banu Mushtaq as chief guest violated any law or the Constitution. The High Court clearly stated that inviting a person of any religion to such an event is entirely constitutional.
Now Awaiting Supreme Court Hearing
Challenging the High Court's decision, petitioner H.S. Gaurav has appealed to the Supreme Court. A Supreme Court bench, comprising Chief Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, has agreed to an urgent hearing of the matter. The hearing is scheduled for today, September 19, as the festival is set to begin on September 22.
The petitioners argue that this is not merely a government event but a festival deeply rooted in religious traditions. Therefore, the inclusion of a non-Hindu in this tradition is deemed inappropriate.
Karnataka Government's Defense
The Karnataka government defended its decision, stating that Mysuru Dasara is not merely a religious event but a public cultural program of the state. The government argues that an individual from any religion or community can be made the chief guest for this event.
The government also stated that Banu Mushtaq is not only an author but also a lawyer and social activist. She has been invited to several government and cultural programs in the past. Therefore, raising a controversy over her selection is deemed unjustified.
