Mysuru, Sept. 22 -- Renowned Kannada writer and International Booker Prize-2025 winner Banu Mushtaq, who inaugurated the Mysuru Dasara 2025 celebrations atop Chamundi Hill this morning, delivered a powerful and poetic speech blending personal reflection, cultural pride and a universal message of peace.

Describing the moment as "the greatest honour of my life," she attributed her presence to the divine will of Goddess Chamundeshwari.

"Though some voices opposed my selection, it is Goddess Chamundi who has called me here. I stand before you in her grace, not by force but by faith," she said, visibly moved, her words resonating with humility and spiritual conviction.

Banu Mushtaq emphasised that Dasara is not merely a regional or national...