Overview

• Pramoda Devi Wadiyar voiced deep dismay over political statements on Chamundeshwari Temple, saying it is a Hindu shrine administered under the Muzrai Department.
• She distinguished the government’s Nada Habba as a cultural program and noted the royal family privately conducts Navaratri rituals, with timings set to prevent overlap.
• Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar said Chamundi Hills and the goddess are for everyone, and Home Minister G. Parameshwara called Dasara a state festival open to all communities.
• BJP leaders, including Pratap Simha and B. Y. Vijayendra, questioned inviting a Muslim author to a religiously rooted celebration, while MP Yaduveer Wadiyar praised Banu Mushtaq yet stressed the festival’s religious sentiment.
• Banu Mushtaq affirmed respect for the festival and Goddess Chamundeshwari and has accepted the invitation; the 11-day Dasara is scheduled from September 22 to October 2.