Mysuru: Taking strong exception for the selection of International Booker Prize winner Banu Mushtaq for Dasara inauguration, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has demanded that writer Deepa Bhasthi who translated Banu’s Kannada work ‘Yedeya Hanathe’ to English (Heart Lamp), which earned the Booker Prize, too must be invited for Dasara inauguration.

Addressing a press meet here yesterday, VHP Mysuru city President Mahesh Kamath maintained that it was not correct on the part of the State Government to invite Banu Mushtaq for Dasara inauguration, in the first place. Alleging that Banu had made anti-Kannada remarks earlier, he contended that she had also consistently opposed Hindu practices and traditions.

“Translator Deepa Bhasthi is equally responsible for Banu Mushtaq getting the prestigious International Booker prize. As such Deepa too should be invited for Dasara inauguration,” said Kamath.

The recent statement of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar that Chamundeswhari Hill temple in the city, does not belong to Hindus is condemnable. By making such ridiculous statements, Shivakumar seems to be playing appeasement politics, he added.