Bengaluru: The Karnataka government’s decision to invite Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq as the Chief Guest for the world-famous Dasara Festival during Navratri has sparked controversy, with right-wing groups questioning the choice. Critics cited an old 2023 video in which Mushtaq allegedly criticized the Kannada flag and questioned the designation of the State deity as ‘Bhuvaneshwari Devi.’

BJP leaders, including Bengaluru South MP Tejaswi Surya and former MP Prathap Simha, raised concerns about whether Mushtaq’s beliefs align with the religious sentiments of Dasara, which is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari. In her 2023 speech at the People’s Literature Festival in Bengaluru, Mushtaq had expressed her perception as a woman from a minority community, questioning the state’s handling of Kannada language and its symbolism, which she described as suppressive and exclusionary.

Expelled BJP leader Basannagouda Patil Yatnal also weighed in, questioning whether Mushtaq’s participation in a Hindu religious ceremony conflicts with her Islamic faith, and asked for clarification on her spiritual beliefs. Prathap Simha remarked that while he respected her literary contributions, Dasara is primarily a Hindu religious festival and its inauguration involves worship of Chamundeshwari, raising doubts about her suitability for the role. Tejaswi Surya similarly requested that Mushtaq publicly clarify her belief in the goddess.

The controversy began earlier when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah initially invited Congress leader Sonia Gandhi to inaugurate Dasara. Gandhi declined the invitation, which temporarily eased criticism from the BJP. Following her refusal, the government approached Mushtaq, who accepted the invitation, prompting renewed debate after Siddaramaiah announced her as the Dasara Chief Guest in the Legislative Assembly.