Mangaluru: Kambala season commences with new rules

Mangaluru: Kambala season commences with new rules

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, November 1, 2024: Kambala, the traditional buffalo racing event in Tulu Nadu, is set to commence this year with a strong emphasis on timely management. The District Kambala Committee has introduced new guidelines to ensure races run smoothly and punctually.

Historically, delays in preparing buffaloes for different categories were common. To combat this, each race category must now be completed within 30 minutes, and buffaloes need to be ready in the allotted time. If they are not prepared within 2 minutes (Junior) or 5 minutes (Senior) of the scheduled start, the competing pair will receive a walkover.

Racer participation limits

Each racer can enter a maximum of four buffalo pairs across various categories. If a racer participates in Categories A and B (both owned by the same individual), they may enter only three categories total. Racers with three pairs (A, B, C) can add one more pair, but must use only one pair per category. Furthermore, each event must begin within 10 minutes of the previous one, with timing announcements made accordingly.

Stricter shading rules

Buffalo pairs that won awards in the previous season will face shading restrictions, meaning they cannot compete under the same conditions as last year. However, if a pair is entered under a different owner’s name, these restrictions will not apply.

New app and timer system

Due to an increase in entries for the Junior Division, organizers will utilize an app for managing queues. Participants are required to register at the Manjotti entry point prior to racing. LED timers will be placed at the starting line to enforce time discipline, complemented by a siren system for alerts.

Kambala schedule

Traditional Kambala: Starts at 10:45 AM and ends at 10:45 AM the following day.

Other Kambalas: Begin at 9:00 AM and conclude at 9:00 AM the next day.

Allotted time for each race

    Senior Hagga: 10 minutes
    Junior Hagga: 7 minutes
    Senior Negilu: 8 minutes
    Junior Negilu: 6 minutes
    Adda Halghe: 10 minutes

Judging rules

At least 30 minutes before each Kambala event, two referees for the race and three for the Manjotti entry, along with one scribe, must be present. Referees will rotate from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and then switch every two hours. Manjotti referees will monitor sensor lights and timings, though timing should not rely solely on these lights. Third umpires may be called upon as necessary.

Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, President of the District Kambala Committee, emphasized, "Kambala traditions vary, and everyone has their perspectives. Nevertheless, implementing changes for an organized and accurate system is essential. This season’s new rules will help ensure that."