Bengaluru: The political slugfest over Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar’s remark that Chamundi Temple is not the sole property of Hindus has intensified, with the BJP now signalling a “Chamundi Chalo” movement, mirroring its earlier “Dharmasthala Chalo” campaign.
The issue gained momentum after BJP leader R. Ashoka warned that the party would march to the Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysuru in protest against Shivakumar’s comments. In response, Congress leaders hit back, challenging the BJP to also take their protests to Delhi.
“Just as you organized Dharmasthala Chalo, you can also do Chamundeshwari Chalo. In fact, why not also do Delhi Chalo and raise your voice for Kannadigas?” Congress leaders countered.
Former MP Pratap Simha sharpened the attack, saying, “If Bhanu Mushtaq is chosen to inaugurate Dasara, then let her climb Chamundi Hill with kumkuma on her forehead. Can she do that?” Chief Minister Siddaramaiah retorted, questioning whether BJP would dare make similar statements about other religions.
Meanwhile, pro-Kannada outfit Karave President Narayan Gowda expressed doubts over the selection of Bhanu Mushtaq as Dasara’s inaugurator. “If someone speaks of Bhuvaneshwari today but avoids Chamundeshwari tomorrow, what is the guarantee? If Chamundi is not accepted, how will you inaugurate Dasara?” he asked.
The controversy comes as the Mysuru district administration is preparing to officially invite Bhanu Mushtaq for the 2025 Dasara inauguration, despite strong protests from the BJP.
With the BJP calling Shivakumar’s statement an insult to Hindu sentiments and the Congress standing firmly by its leader, the Chamundi Chalo vs Dharmasthala Chalo row is set to escalate further as the Dasara season approaches.
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