Banu Mushtaq’s family celebrated long into the night

Hassan: Banu Mushtaq's family home in Pension Mohalla, Hassan, about 180km from Bengaluru erupted in celebration the moment she was announced the winner of the International Booker Prize.Her husband, Mohiyuddin Mushtaq, stayed up through Tuesday-Wednesday night, fingers crossed as the award ceremony unfolded in London. When her name was announced, emotions overflowed."Our family members were in touch online throughout the night. It is unforgettable," said Mohiyuddin, a local businessman. "We were waiting for this day. I was confident that she would get the award, but I was nervous. When her book's name was announced, we all celebrated the moment. It was very emotional. I went to bed only at 4am after speaking with relatives and friends. We are all very happy for her."Mohiyuddin had planned to accompany Mushtaq to London, but a visa delay kept him in Hassan. Instead, Banu was joined by her three daughters, their spouses, and grandchildren.Mohiyuddin marked the moment by distributing sweets to their son Taher, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. "Until Banu's Heart Lamp made the longlist, I was not familiar with the Booker award," he admitted. But the gravity of the occasion wasn't lost on him. "This award is for all of Karnataka. Banu spoke about Karnataka and Kannada on that global stage, which is a moment of pride for all Kannadigas," he said.Taher echoed his father's pride, calling it a proud day for both the state and Kannada literature.In recent interviews, Banu has acknowledged her husband's unwavering support. "He stood by me during the most difficult times, especially when I faced the wrath of fundamentalists on the issue of Muslim women being allowed to pray in mosques," she said.Suitcase goes missingThe journey to London came with its own drama. During her flight to London, Banu lost her suitcase — along with essential medicines and the silk sari she had chosen for the ceremony. "Our daughters, who accompanied her on the trip, managed to get her a new sari and made some last-minute arrangements in London," said Mohiyuddin. The luggage has since been traced but is yet to be delivered to her.