First Kambala event in Bengaluru set to begin on November 25

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Oct 1, 2023: The eagerly anticipated two-day Kambala event in Bengaluru is all set to kick off on November 25 this year, with an estimated participation of between 100 and 130 pairs of racing buffaloes. K.S. Ashok Kumar Rai, the President of the Bengaluru Kambala Committee and MLA of Puttur in Dakshina Kannada, shared this exciting news during a press conference held after a preliminary meeting with the buffalo owners.

Rai emphasized that this Kambala event, taking place at the iconic Palace Grounds, is a unique opportunity to showcase the "folk sports" of Karnataka’s coastal region on a global stage. The event carries the slogan "Bengaluru Kambala, Namma Kambala" and is being organized under the joint auspices of the Kambala Committees of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kasaragod districts and the Bengaluru Kambala Committee.

Buffaloes destined for the races will commence their journey from Mangaluru on November 23, with meticulous arrangements in place for their safe transportation. These arrangements include scheduled stops at Hassan and regular rest breaks every three to four hours. Additionally, drinking water for the buffaloes will be transported in tankers from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. A Pashu Sanjeevini ambulance, staffed with a team of veterinarians, will accompany the buffalo convoy.

Rai assured that the Kambala event would adhere to the guidelines set by the Supreme Court. A 145-meter-long Kambala track will be constructed at the venue, with all necessary arrangements made to ensure the event’s success. The estimated cost of organizing this grand event is around Rs 5-6 crore. Prizes will be awarded to the winning buffalo pairs in the form of two sovereign gold medals, while runners-up pairs will receive one sovereign gold medal. All participating buffalo pairs will also receive medals.

One of the primary objectives of hosting Kambala in Bengaluru is to introduce the rich culture of Tulunadu to the city. Efforts have been made to secure government approval for the construction of a Tulu Bhavan on an acre of land in Bengaluru. Additionally, a proposal to establish a Kambala Bhavan at Pilikula in Mangaluru is also in the works. The event is expected to attract celebrities from Bollywood and South India, as well as the honorable Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other ministers.