Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah opened the traditional ‘Nada Habba’ (State festival) atop Chamundi Hills in Mysuru with a clear message: political battles belong in elections, not in cultural celebrations. The Chief Minister cautioned his opponents against injecting petty politics into the festivities, which officially began on September 22.
Following prayers to Goddess Chamundeshwari and the inauguration of Mysuru Dasara 2025, Mr. Siddaramaiah declared, “The electoral field is open for politics; let’s engage there. But let’s not stoop to dirty politics concerning our cherished Nada Habba.”
“It was appropriate that International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq inaugurated this year’s Dasara festivities. I thank her on behalf of the people of the State, and the people of Mysuru district in particular, for inaugurating the Nada Habba”SiddaramaiahChief Minister of Karnataka
The Chief Minister staunchly defended the government’s choice of International Booker Prize winner and esteemed writer Banu Mushtaq to inaugurate this year’s celebrations. He stated, “Those who opposed her lack understanding of both Dasara and our rich cultural heritage. Distorting history for selfish political gains is unforgivable. If you wish to play politics, do so during elections, not amidst our cultural festival.”
He highlighted that a significant portion of society had welcomed Ms. Mushtaq’s inaugural address, viewing it as a moment of pride for Karnataka. “It is entirely fitting that an International Booker Prize laureate inaugurated Dasara. Ms. Banu Mushtaq is not merely a Muslim woman; she embodies human values. We must embrace love, not hatred. Hatred contradicts humanity, and those who propagate it are against humanity itself,” he passionately argued.
Reaffirming his dedication to the foundational principles of the Constitution, the CM emphasized, “Our Constitution champions secularism and non-religious governance, a stance affirmed by both the Karnataka High Court and the Supreme Court. It is crucial to comprehend our Constitution to grasp our rights and duties fully.”
Mr. Siddaramaiah credited Ms. Banu Mushtaq’s Dasara inaugural speech with enlightening those who had previously opposed her invitation to inaugurate the ‘Nada Habba’.
Invoking the words of ‘Rashtrakavi’ Kuvempu, Mr. Siddaramaiah reminded the assembly, “Beyond temples, churches, and mosques, ours is a peaceful garden for all communities (Sarva Janangada Shanthiya Totha). We must always remember Kuvempu’s profound message.”
He reiterated his vision for Karnataka, echoing Kuvempu’s dream of a peaceful sanctuary for all communities, and used this powerful message to critique those who stand against secular ideals.
Shifting focus, Mr. Siddaramaiah addressed the BJP’s criticisms regarding the Congress government’s guarantee schemes, which opponents claim will financially cripple the state. He challenged, “Are BJP leaders themselves not benefiting from our guarantees? We have implemented these schemes in alignment with the spirit of the Constitution, providing advantages to the poor across all castes, religions, and political affiliations.”
He confirmed that these welfare schemes would continue, citing their positive impact. “Thanks to these guarantees, Karnataka’s per capita income has soared to ₹2.04 lakh, the highest in the country. In fact, our per capita income has doubled, and our state now leads in GDP,” he proudly informed the audience.
In a direct jab at the BJP, the Chief Minister remarked, “On one hand, the BJP criticizes our guarantees; on the other, they shamelessly copy them.”
Mr. Siddaramaiah concluded by highlighting a significant rise in women’s employment, attributing this growth to the government’s guarantee schemes. “Job opportunities for women have increased by 21% in Bengaluru alone and by 23% in the Hubballi region,” he reported.