Bengaluru/Mysuru: Political tensions between the Congress and BJP have escalated over the selection of Bhanu Mushtaq as the inaugurator of Mysuru Dasara 2025, with remarks by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Chamundi Hills triggering a fresh controversy.
Speaking in Bengaluru, DK Shivakumar asserted that Chamundi Hills is government property and not the exclusive “property of Hindus.” He emphasized that Chamundeshwari is the state deity, revered by all communities, and said: “We never said only Hindus should visit. Chamundeshwari blesses everyone—Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jains, Sikhs and Parsis. Even foreign guests have been invited historically by the Wadiyars.”
Shivakumar added that the hill temple is not restricted to a single faith, pointing out India’s secular character and the constitutional right of equal access to worship. He rejected the idea that only Hindus could claim Chamundi Hills, stressing that the deity’s blessings extend to all.
BJP Reaction
The comments have provoked strong reactions from BJP leaders, including former Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje, who accused Shivakumar of “politicising religion” and even warned: “Are you planning to declare Chamundi Hills as Waqf property? Farmers’ lands have already been handed over under Waqf in Karnataka—will you bring temples into controversy too?”
BJP leaders alleged that the Congress is deliberately creating religious disputes to distract from internal dissent and controversies around RSS and other Hindu organisations.
Royal Family’s Response
Adding to the row, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar also expressed displeasure, questioning Shivakumar’s comments and insisting that Chamundi Hills holds a sacred Hindu legacy. This has fueled further confrontation, with Congress leaders defending Shivakumar while BJP leaders accused the Deputy CM of insulting Hindu sentiments.
Government’s Stand
Shivakumar defended his statement by stressing that Chamundeshwari belongs to all, and said the Dasara inauguration invite to Bhanu Mushtaq reflects Mysuru’s tradition of inclusiveness.
Meanwhile, Mysuru DC Lakshmikant Reddy confirmed that the district administration will formally invite Bhanu Mushtaq in the first week of September, along with the Chief Minister, Deputy CM, Ministers, and Governor for the festivities.
The official said: “There is no controversy in the district administration’s view. The Chief Minister has already announced the inaugurator. We will extend a respectful invitation.”
Outlook
As Mysuru Dasara 2025 preparations intensify, the Chamundi Hills debate has snowballed into a political flashpoint between Congress and BJP, blending religious sensitivities with electoral narratives. Observers note that the controversy may dominate the early phase of Karnataka’s festival season, with both parties using it to consolidate their voter base.
