Bengaluru: A controversy has erupted in Karnataka after the state government’s decision to invite Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate this year’s Dasara Festival. Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly, R. Ashok, strongly objected to the choice, questioning why a Muslim author was chosen for the traditional Hindu festival.
Ashok said there was no dearth of eminent personalities from Karnataka’s Hindu community, including writers, scientists, philanthropists, freedom fighters, as well as leaders from the Scheduled Castes and backward classes, who could have been honoured with the responsibility. He further questioned, “How can she do pooja in a dharmshala? In Islam, they reject murti pooja. How will she perform idol worship?”
The BJP leader accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of politicising cultural traditions for vote-bank gains, saying the move disregards Karnataka’s heritage and religious sentiments.
The decision has sparked debate across political and cultural circles, with many accusing the government of playing identity politics, while others argue it is a step towards inclusivity.
