Writer Banu Mushtaq Inaugurates Dasara Festival In Mysuru

Writer Banu Mushtaq Inaugurates Mysuru Dasara Festival With Traditional Ceremony

International Booker Prize-winning author Banu Mushtaq officially launched the prestigious Mysuru Dasara festival on Monday.

Mysuru:

The renowned Mysuru Dasara festival began with religious and traditional ceremonies across the city and palaces on Monday, with acclaimed International Booker Prize recipient Banu Mushtaq officiating the grand inauguration.

During the auspicious "Vrushchika Lagna" period, Mushtaq formally commenced the celebrations by offering flowers to the idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, the principal deity of Mysuru and its royal heritage, while priests chanted Vedic hymns at the sacred Chamundeshwari temple located atop the Chamundi Hills.

Known as 'Nada Habba' (state festival), the 11-day Dasara or 'Sharan Navaratri' festivities this year promise to be especially magnificent, highlighting Karnataka's cultural heritage and time-honored traditions alongside elements of royal splendor and ceremonial grandeur.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and numerous state cabinet ministers accompanied Banu Mushtaq during the inaugural ceremony.

Prior to the official commencement, Mushtaq, the Chief Minister and other distinguished guests visited the Chamundeshwari temple to offer prayers to the goddess, who is reverently acknowledged as the "Naada Devate" (state deity).

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