Overview

• JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy said he has no objection to Banu Mushtaq inaugurating the festival and endorsed the government’s decision.
• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah invited the International Booker winner to open Mysuru Dasara, which runs from September 22 to October 2.
• Pramoda Devi Wadiyar voiced deep dismay, affirmed the Chamundeshwari Temple’s Hindu character under the Muzrai Department, and differentiated the royal family’s private rites from the state’s cultural events.
• BJP leaders demanded D.K. Shivakumar apologise for saying Chamundi Hills is not exclusive Hindu property, sought a clarification from the Chief Minister, and prepared protests including a September 1 Dharmasthala ‘Dharmasabha’.
• Shivakumar said he would refrain from further public comment, while Mushtaq stated she respects the festival and that past remarks attributed to her were distorted.