What Is Kambala: Traditional Buffalo Racing Festival in Karnataka

Key aspects of Kambala

• Traditional buffalo race: Kambala, answering "what is kambala," is primarily a buffalo racing sport held in wet paddy fields, where pairs of buffaloes run through slush guided by a farmer

• Cultural significance: The kambala festival in India has a history dating back 1000 years, originating as a celebration by the farming community to please the gods for a good harvest

• Timing and location: Kambala buffalo race events take place from November to March in various parts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in Karnataka

• Religious connection: The kambala festival is dedicated to Lord Kadri Manjunath, considered an avatar of Lord Shiva, as a form of thanksgiving for good harvests and buffalo health

• Participation and spectators: Each Kambala event can involve 100-130 pairs of buffaloes and attract up to 20,000 spectators

Kambala festival details

Event structure

• The kambala buffalo race takes place in a slushy paddy field with buffaloes running in pairs
• Farmers guide the buffaloes, often balancing on a wooden plank behind them
• The swiftest buffalo pair is awarded the first prize

Locations

Kambala events, answering "what is kambala," are held in various places including:

• Mangalore
• Baradi Beedu
• Bolantur
• Kolatta
• Majalu
• Puttur
• Kamalakettu
• Uppinagadi

Organization

• The Kambala association for Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts oversees the events
• They set rules and regulations and decide on 15 Kambala dates annually
• Kambala Associations organize up to 45 races during the festival season

Controversies and challenges

• Animal cruelty concerns: The kambala buffalo race was banned in 2014 due to animal cruelty concerns but was re-legalized in 2017 under new regulations

• Caste and feudalism issues: Some critics argue that the kambala festival in India perpetuates caste-based and feudal structures in the region

• Modernization: The traditional form of Kambala has evolved into a more competitive sport, sometimes leading to family disputes over prestige and money

FAQ

What is Kambala?

Kambala is a traditional buffalo racing festival held in coastal Karnataka, India. It involves pairs of buffaloes racing through slushy paddy fields, guided by farmers. The festival is part of harvest celebrations dedicated to Lord Shiva and typically takes place from November to March.

How long has the Kambala festival been celebrated in India?

The Kambala festival in India has a history dating back approximately 1000 years. It originated as a celebration by the farming community to please the gods for a good harvest and has since become an important cultural tradition in the region.

Where does the Kambala buffalo race take place?

The Kambala buffalo race events are held in various parts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in Karnataka. Some specific locations include Mangalore, Baradi Beedu, Bolantur, Kolatta, Majalu, Puttur, Kamalakettu, and Uppinagadi.

How many buffaloes participate in a Kambala event?

A typical Kambala event can involve 100-130 pairs of buffaloes. These events often attract up to 20,000 spectators, making them significant cultural gatherings in the region.

Has the Kambala festival in India faced any controversies?

Yes, the Kambala buffalo race has faced controversies. It was banned in 2014 due to animal cruelty concerns but was re-legalized in 2017 under new regulations. Additionally, some critics argue that the festival perpetuates caste-based and feudal structures in the region.