'She Must Declare Faith In...': BJP Fumes As Muslim Writer Banu Mushtaq Invited To Open Mysuru Dasara

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2025-08-25 07:49:55 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-26 10:57:53

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The BJP is fuming over the invitation to Muslim writer Banu Mushtaq to open the Mysore Dasara celebrations, as some within the party believe the tradition should be reserved for those who profess faith in the Hindu religion. Mushtaq, 77, will formally open the festivities on September 22, while the grand Mysuru Vijayadashami procession is scheduled for October 2.

The Hindu reported that the invitation to Mushtaq, a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, has sparked protests from BJP functionaries in Mysuru district. Their argument is that Mushtaq's participation is incompatible with the tradition of the Vijaya Dashami procession, which is devoted to the worship of the Hindu deity Durga.

The BJP has historically tied the Dasara celebrations in Mysuru to the waning influence of the Chola Empire, with the festival commencing with the coronation of the Hindu king Raja Raja Chola. BJP functionary Siddaraju alleged that the Congress-led government's "attempt to secularize the festival will result in a religious backlash."

However, defending the decision to invite Mushtaq, Mysore Palace Board Chairman Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar told The Times of India that the writer was chosen given her "contribution to society through her writing."

He emphasized that the festival is a secular event. "Just because it started in a certain way doesn't mean it should continue that way," he said.

Mushtaq, a research professor at the National Research Institute of Folk Arts in Mysore, has authored more than 80 books in Kannada and Urdu, including the acclaimed autobiography, "Aadharadha Maate. "

Her selection to launch the nine-day festival, marking the victory of good over evil, is a significant step toward mainstreaming of minorities in India.

As India navigates religious polarization post-pandemic, invitations like this signal the need for a inclusive nation.

Conclusion:

BJP politicians notwithstanding, Banu Mushtaq's invitation to participate in the Mysore Dasara celebrations symbolizes a welcome move towards a more inclusive India. The nation has lately been grappling with religious polarization, and calls for unity and equality are more pressing than ever. This progressive act signifies a break from the convention of restricting participation in Dasara celebrations to those of a particular faith. Mushtaq, a renowned Muslim writer and researcher, was selected for her distinguished contributions to Indian society. Her participation signals a move away from religious-themed celebrations and towards a more diverse India.

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