Overview

• Karnataka named International Booker-winning Kannada author Banu Mushtaq as chief guest to open Mysuru Dasara on September 22, with Vijayadashami set for October 2.
• BJP figures including MP Tejasvi Surya, MLC C T Ravi, and former MP Pratap Simha argue the religious ceremony requires a public affirmation of belief in Goddess Chamundeshwari.
• Expelled BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal urged Mushtaq to clarify her faith and suggested she limit her participation to cultural or literary events.
• The state has made no announcement changing the invitation or the festival schedule that has been publicly reported.
• Mushtaq, 77, won the International Booker Prize for Heart Lamp, translated by Deepa Bhasthi, and is a writer and activist from Hassan.