Udupi: Karnataka Kambala Association president Devi Prasad Shetty has defended the proposal to organise Kambala as part of the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, stating that the traditional buffalo race would enhance, rather than diminish, the cultural significance of the state festival.
Addressing a press conference in Udupi, Shetty said Kambala represents Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and should be showcased to a wider audience. He maintained that the inclusion of the traditional sport in the Dasara festivities would celebrate the state’s diverse traditions while preserving its historical identity.
Kambala can be held across Karnataka
Devi Prasad Shetty said the Karnataka government has constituted a State Kambala Association and that courts have permitted Kambala events to be organised anywhere in the state.
He noted that although the sport has traditionally been associated with the coastal districts of Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Kasaragod, there is no restriction on conducting Kambala in other parts of Karnataka.
According to Shetty, organising the event during Mysuru Dasara would help introduce the centuries-old tradition to people from different regions of the state and visitors from across the country.
‘A cultural tradition beyond religion and caste’
Rejecting claims that Kambala belongs to any particular community, Shetty said the sport is celebrated by people from all backgrounds.
He said participants and supporters include people from different religions, communities and economic backgrounds, reflecting the inclusive nature of the tradition.
“Kambala is not associated with any one religion, caste or political party. People from all sections of society participate in and celebrate it,” he said.
He added that the objective of taking Kambala to Mysuru is to promote awareness of Karnataka’s traditional sporting and cultural practices.
‘Kambala will complement Mysuru Dasara’
Responding to concerns that Kambala could overshadow or dilute the significance of Mysuru Dasara, Shetty said the two traditions complement each other.
He stated that there is no cultural divide between coastal Karnataka and the Mysuru region, adding that both contribute to the state’s shared heritage.
Recalling the historical association between Kambala and the erstwhile Mysore kingdom, Shetty said the sport had received the patronage of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar and the Mysore royal family. He added that Kambala had also been organised in areas that were once part of the Mysore kingdom.
According to him, including the sport in Dasara celebrations would showcase Karnataka’s cultural diversity rather than alter the identity of the festival.
Rejects criticism over caste and animal welfare
Devi Prasad Shetty dismissed allegations that Kambala promotes caste discrimination, describing such claims as unfounded.
He said Kambala has traditionally been a farmers’ sport that brings together people from different sections of society and is conducted under the supervision of the government while following applicable regulations.
Responding to concerns about the welfare of buffaloes used in the races, Shetty said the animals receive dedicated care throughout the year.
He stated that buffaloes participate in races for only about 90 days annually, while they are looked after for the remainder of the year. According to him, owners treat the animals like members of their families and ensure their well-being.
Enthusiasts willing to support the event
Shetty also said Kambala has gained recognition beyond Karnataka and has attracted growing interest over the years.
He noted that the sport requires relatively limited infrastructure compared to many large sporting events. If financial constraints arise, he said, several Kambala enthusiasts are willing to sponsor the event.
According to Shetty, the continued growth of Kambala has been driven by the commitment of farmers, youth, businesspersons and community organisations who have preserved its traditional character while expanding its reach.
Calls for understanding of Kambala’s heritage
Thanking the Chief Minister for supporting the proposal to organise Kambala during the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, Shetty appealed to critics to understand the sport’s history and cultural significance before expressing opposition.
He said the proposal is intended to celebrate Karnataka’s rich and diverse traditions and to introduce one of the state’s oldest rural sporting practices to a wider audience while preserving its heritage for future generations.