Mysuru, September 23, 2025, 10:45 AM IST
Atop the mist-shrouded Chamundi Hills, where ancient myths intertwine with the golden hues of dawn, the 416th edition of Mysuru Dasara—Karnataka's crown jewel of cultural splendor—unfolded on September 22, 2025, with a resounding message of peace and inclusivity. International Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq, clad in a resplendent yellow Mysuru silk saree with a green border, lit the ceremonial earthen lamp before the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, igniting not just flames but a fervent call for harmony in a divided world. "In a time when humanity is fueled by hatred and the world surges on a warpath, Mysuru Dasara stands as a clarion call for peace and unity," Mushtaq declared, her words echoing like Vedic hymns across the sacred precincts. As the 11-day Nada Habba (State Festival) commences, blending royal pomp, folk arts, and spiritual fervor, this year's inauguration has already sparked national discourse on culture, faith, and shared heritage.
A Ritual Rooted in Royalty: The Dawn of Dasara
The Mysuru Dasara, tracing its origins to the Vijayanagara Empire in 1610 and elevated to grandeur by the Wadiyar dynasty, is more than a festival—it's a living tapestry of Karnataka's soul. Officially kicking off on September 22 during the auspicious Vrushchika Lagna (between 10:10 a.m. and 10:40 a.m.), the inauguration unfolded with meticulous tradition at the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple. Mushtaq, accompanied by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, senior cabinet colleagues, and temple priests, first sought darshan in the sanctum sanctorum, where she was honored with a garland, a ceremonial saree, and mangala aarti. Emerging to the rhythmic chants of Vedic hymns, she showered floral tributes on the goddess's idol enshrined in a silver mantapa and flagged off the silver chariot procession, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Mushtaq's selection as inaugurator—a first for a Kannada writer of her stature—infused the event with literary gravitas. Winner of the 2025 International Booker Prize for her poignant short story anthology Heart Lamp, which weaves tales of women's resilience amid social upheavals, the 52-year-old activist-author from Mysuru's literary circles described the moment as profoundly personal. "A close friend had vowed to bring me here after praying for my Booker win; today, Mother Chamundeshwari has called me herself," she shared, her voice steady yet emotive. "This is the greatest honor of my life, inaugurating with her blessings."
The ceremony, under heightened security with frisking, vehicle restrictions, and bans on items like black caps and handkerchiefs, drew thousands despite the early hour. Private vehicles were barred without passes, ensuring a serene yet vibrant atmosphere. As the lamp's glow illuminated the hills, priests invoked blessings for prosperity, while cultural troupes heralded the start with folk dances and nadaswaram melodies.
Echoes of Inclusivity: Mushtaq's Poetic Plea for Unity
In her inaugural address, delivered with the poise of a storyteller who has chronicled injustice and hope, Mushtaq wove a narrative that transcended ritual. "Our culture is our root, harmony our strength, and economy our wings," she proclaimed. "Mysuru Dasara is a garden of tranquility for all communities—a celebration that bridges hearts, spreads love, not hate. Let us respect democracy, honor each other's beliefs, and build a society rich in human values, where womanhood embodies not just affection but the unyielding fight against injustice."
Drawing from Goddess Chamundeshwari's archetype—the fierce slayer of Mahishasura—Mushtaq celebrated feminine power: "She symbolizes a woman's undefeatable will, standing for softness and strength alike." In a poignant touch, she recited an original verse about a Muslim woman receiving the traditional 'bagina' offering, evoking shared traditions and emotional bonds. "May the glory of Chamundi guide us toward unity, like the fragrance of this land symbolizing human love," she concluded, her words met with applause that rippled through the crowd.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who joined Mushtaq in the rituals, echoed her sentiments, inaugurating subsequent events like the Flower Show at Kuppanna Park (12:30 p.m.), Aahara Mela at Maharaja’s College Ground (1 p.m.), traditional wrestling at D. Devaraja Urs Stadium (4 p.m.), State-level Dasara Sports (5:30 p.m.), and the grand Exhibition (7:30 p.m.). "Dasara is secular and apolitical, a festival of the people," he affirmed, underscoring the government's vision of inclusivity. Home Minister G. Parameshwara added, "This is a state event, not confined to religion—past inaugurators like poet Nissar Ahmed prove that."
Shadows of Controversy: Faith, Politics, and the Fight for Tradition
Yet, the lamp of harmony flickered against winds of contention. Mushtaq's invitation, announced in August, ignited a firestorm from BJP leaders and Hindu groups, who questioned her faith as a Muslim and cited a 2023 video where she allegedly critiqued deifying Kannada as "Goddess Bhuvaneshwari." Expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal thundered, "Allowing a non-Hindu to perform Agra Puja hurts sentiments—Dasara's religious core must remain intact." Former Mysuru MP Prathap Simha and state BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra echoed calls for clarification on her reverence for Chamundeshwari, while Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Mysuru's titular Maharaja, urged adherence to devotional traditions.
A petition challenging her role reached the Karnataka High Court, which upheld the government's decision, deeming Dasara a cultural state festival. The Supreme Court dismissed an appeal on September 20, reinforcing that "floral offerings and lamp-lighting are inclusive acts, not exclusive rituals." Mushtaq responded gracefully: "My faith has never crossed my home's threshold; I respect this festival deeply. My writings, including *Booker Banu Baduku Baraha*, celebrate Kannada and Hindu culture." She dismissed viral clips as "distorted," highlighting her family's historical ties—her uncle, Sepoy Mohammad Ghouse, once guarded Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar.
Critics like Deepa Bhasthi, another Booker nominee, questioned the choice's optics, but supporters hailed it as progressive. "Dasara evolves; inviting diverse voices enriches it," said cultural analyst Dr. R. Ganesh.
A Tapestry Unfurling: What Lies Ahead in Nada Habba
As Day 2 dawns on September 23, Mysuru pulses with anticipation. The itinerary promises a kaleidoscope: Jumbo Savari processions with caparisoned elephants, Yuva Utsava for youth arts, and the iconic torchlight parade on Vijayadashami (October 2). Exhibitions showcase Mysore silk, sandalwood crafts, and Mallige flowers, while food melas tantalize with Mysore Pak and Dose. This year, eco-friendly initiatives—like plastic bans and solar illuminations—align with sustainability calls.
Tourism Minister N. Channabasappa projects over 50 lakh visitors, boosting the economy by Rs 500 crore. "Dasara unites us beyond divides," he said. Amid Navratri's nine-night vigil, devotees flock to temples, but Mushtaq's message lingers: a reminder that in harmony's light, even controversies fade.
In Mysuru's palaces and hills, where history whispers through silk-draped streets, Dasara 2025 reaffirms its essence—a beacon of cultural unity in turbulent times. As Mushtaq poetically put it, "Let this festival's sunlight reflect our love." For now, the Garden City's spirit soars, harmonious and unbowed.
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