Mon Sep 22 09:21:23 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Mysuru Dasara Festivities Commence Amid Controversy with Inauguration by Booker Prize Winner Banu Mushtaq**
**Mysuru, India – September 22, 2025** – The renowned 11-day Dasara festival in Mysuru, known as the “City of Palaces,” kicked off today with traditional and religious fervor, albeit amidst controversy. International Booker Prize-winning writer Banu Mushtaq inaugurated the festivities by showering flowers on the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari at the Chamundeshwari temple, an act accompanied by Vedic chants.
Mushtaq’s selection as the inaugurator drew objections from some sections of the community, however, the Karnataka government stood by its decision. She thanked Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for his support and called the opportunity to inaugurate Dasara a fulfillment of a personal vow, facilitated by what she described as a divine invitation from Goddess Chamundeshwari herself. The Supreme Court had earlier dismissed a plea challenging Mushtaq’s invitation.
In her inaugural address, Mushtaq emphasized the collective culture of Karnataka, highlighting the importance of harmony, strength, and womanhood, as represented by Goddess Chamundeshwari. She spoke passionately about unity in diversity, recalling the inclusive history of Mysuru, and emphasizing the role of culture in bridging divides and fostering love. Mushtaq also called for respect for democratic values and mutual understanding, sending a message of peace and harmony amidst global conflicts.
“At a time when the world is moving on the path of war and humanity is immersed in hatred and bloodshed, let Mysuru Dasara send out a message of peace and harmony,” Mushtaq stated.
The inauguration marks the beginning of a series of cultural and religious events that will attract visitors from across India and the world to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
First Piper 