Pramoda Devi Wadiyar Expresses 'Deep Dismay' On Dasara Row, Speaks On Chamundeshwari Temple Issue

Last Updated:August 28, 2025, 05:46 IST

If it were not a Hindu temple, it would never have been brought under the Muzrai Department in the first place, she said

While she concurs that the government's Dasara is a 'cultural celebration', she argues that the state, 'by its nature, cannot claim religious sanctity, sampradaya, or parampare'. File pic/Facebook

Pramoda Devi Wadiyar of the erstwhile Mysore royal family has expressed “deep dismay" over the Karnataka government’s handling of this year’s Dasara celebrations, citing political interference and questioning recent statements about the sacred Chamundeshwari temple.

In a formal note, Wadiyar addressed the ongoing controversy, which has been fuelled by the selection of a dignitary to inaugurate the “Nada Habba“. She took issue with “unnecessary and avoidable" statements that the Chamundeshwari Temple “does not belong to Hindus".

Wadiyar underscored her point by stating, “If it were not a Hindu temple, it would never have been brought under the Muzrai Department in the first place." The Muzrai Department is the state government body in Karnataka responsible for the management of Hindu religious institutions.

She further clarified the distinction between the state-organised event and traditional practices. While she concurs that the government’s Dasara is a “cultural celebration", she argues that the state, “by its nature, cannot claim religious sanctity, sampradaya, or parampare“.

The royal family, she noted, continues to observe its own “dharmic rituals privately, in accordance with age-old religious customs and traditions". To avoid any conflict, a suitable time is fixed for the inauguration and procession of Sri Chamundeshwari to ensure no overlap with the family’s private observances.

Wadiyar concluded her statement with a call for resolution, expressing hope that “the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi removes all obstacles, misconceptions and conflicts and soon a consensus is reached".

Harish Upadhya

Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi...Read More

Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and RTI investi...

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August 28, 2025, 05:46 IST

News india Pramoda Devi Wadiyar Expresses 'Deep Dismay' On Dasara Row, Speaks On Chamundeshwari Temple Issue

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