Bengaluru, September 15, 2025, 12:20 PM IST – The Karnataka High Court on Monday dismissed Public Interest Litigations (PILs) filed by former Mysuru MP Pratap Simha and two others challenging the selection of International Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq as the chief guest for the inauguration of the 2025 Mysuru Dasara festival. The ruling marks a significant defeat for Simha, who had spearheaded opposition to Mushtaq’s role in the iconic Vijayadashami celebrations.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Joshi heard the petitions filed by Simha, entrepreneur T. Girish Kumar, and Bengaluru resident H.S. Gaurav, who sought to bar Mushtaq from inaugurating the state festival atop Chamundi Hills on September 22. The petitioners argued that Mushtaq’s selection violated the Hindu religious sanctity of Dasara, citing her alleged past statements critical of Hindu traditions, including remarks on Goddess Bhuvaneshwari and practices like the use of turmeric and vermilion.
The controversy began on August 22 when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Mushtaq, celebrated for her 2025 International Booker Prize-winning Kannada short story collection, as the inaugurator, praising her contributions to Kannada literature and advocacy for farmers’ rights. Simha, a vocal BJP leader, led protests, including a march on Chamundi Hills, claiming Mushtaq’s remarks showed disrespect for Hindu sentiments. He clarified his objection was not based on her religious identity but on her perceived insensitivity to cultural traditions.
During the hearing, the petitioners contended that Dasara, deeply rooted in Hindu rituals honoring Goddess Chamundeshwari, should be inaugurated by a Hindu dignitary to preserve its sanctity. State Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty, defending the government’s decision, emphasized the festival’s inclusive nature, noting that Dasara, as Karnataka’s “Nada Habba,” transcends religious boundaries and celebrates the universal theme of good triumphing over evil. Shetty also highlighted inconsistencies in Simha’s stance, pointing out that the former MP had not objected when Muslim poet Nissar Ahmed inaugurated Dasara in 2017. The AG requested exemplary costs for what he termed “frivolous” petitions, but the bench declined to impose fines.
The court ruled that Mushtaq’s selection did not violate any constitutional or legal provisions, stating that imposing religious exclusivity on Vijayadashami, a festival symbolizing universal values, was inappropriate. The bench dismissed the PILs, clearing the way for Mushtaq to inaugurate the 10-day festival, renowned for its cultural processions, Jumbo Savari, and UNESCO-recognized heritage.
The verdict is a blow to Simha and allied Hindu organizations, who had rallied against Mushtaq’s invitation, submitting memorandums urging her to decline the role to avoid hurting religious sentiments. Meanwhile, supporters of Mushtaq, including literary and progressive groups, have hailed her selection as a step toward inclusivity and recognition of her literary achievements.
As preparations for Dasara continue, the ruling underscores Karnataka’s ongoing political divide, with the BJP accusing the Congress-led government of minority appeasement, while the latter defends its decision as a celebration of cultural diversity. The festival, expected to draw global tourists, will proceed with its traditional grandeur, blending devotion and festivity.
