Booker Winner Banu Mushtaq Inaugurates Mysuru Dusshera, Calls Festival a Celebration of Unity

Mysuru: Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq inaugurated the historic Dusshera festival on Chamundi Hill, calling it “the pulse of this land” and “a fair of integrity.” She said the festival is a moment of inclusion for everyone, celebrating Mysuru’s culture and heritage.

Mushtaq shared personal reflections, recalling her uncle served as a guard to the Mysuru king, and praised the city’s spirit of harmony and peace. She described culture as a bridge that unites people, spreading love and not hatred, and said Dusshera should inspire peace and empathy worldwide.

She highlighted the strength of women, drawing inspiration from Goddess Chamundi, and encouraged sharing resources and respecting democratic values. Mushtaq also mentioned her upcoming biography, Booker Banu, where she reflects on her experiences with Hindu traditions.

Addressing earlier controversies, she clarified that her personal religious practices are private, and she respects all religions, asking the media not to distort her words.