Mysuru, Sept. 22 -- Contrary to critics' expectations that Dasara inaugurator and International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq might not follow traditional rituals due to her religion, she participated fully in the ceremonial and deeply religious inauguration atop Chamundi Hill this morning.

Walking through the courtyard and standing in the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple sanctum sanctorum, she offered prayers to the Goddess and received mangalaarti and prasada.

Upon entering the Temple, Banu Mushtaq bowed before the idol of Lord Ganesha and paid floral tributes, becoming one of the first to receive darshan of Goddess Chamundeshwari inside the sanctum.

In a gesture of respect, Sri Chamundeshwari Temple Development Authority Secretary M.J. ...