Mangaluru: The ninth edition of the floodlit Mangaluru Kambala will be held on December 27 at the Rama–Lakshmana twin track at Gold Finch City, marking another milestone in the city’s efforts to preserve and promote the traditional buffalo race and the rich cultural heritage of Tulu Nadu. The announcement was made by Mangaluru Kambala Committee President and Member of Parliament Brijesh Chowta while addressing a press conference on Wednesday.
Focus on culture and heritage
Speaking to the media, Chowta said the ninth-year celebrations would feature nine special programmes aimed at showcasing Tulu culture and values. He underlined the importance of sustaining Kambala within the city, not merely as a sporting event but as a cultural movement that connects people to their roots.
“The objective is to introduce Tulu culture to people from across the country and abroad who live in Mangaluru, while also familiarising the younger generation with the cultural richness of Tulu Nadu,” he said. According to him, Mangaluru Kambala has gradually evolved into a platform that blends tradition with contemporary participation, drawing attention beyond the region.
Cleanliness and social initiatives prioritised
Chowta said cleanliness would be given special priority throughout the event, with organisers ensuring that the venue and surrounding areas remain clean and orderly. Alongside the races, a series of cultural, social and creative programmes have been planned to mark the ninth edition.
One of the highlights will be a historical painting exhibition on Rani Abbakka, the valiant queen of Tulu Nadu who resisted colonial forces. The event will also feature a mass rendition of “Vande Mataram” by 150 girl students, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the patriotic song.
As part of the Prime Minister’s eco-friendly initiative “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”, saplings will be distributed to encourage participants and visitors to plant a tree in their mother’s name. In a unique social gesture, residents of old age homes will be brought to the venue to witness the Kambala and experience the festive atmosphere.
Encouraging local entrepreneurship
Highlighting the role of Kambala as a community platform, Chowta said nine entrepreneurs who have returned from abroad and successfully launched ventures under the “Back to Ooru” concept will be felicitated. The initiative, he said, is intended to inspire youth to explore opportunities in their native region and contribute to local development.
In addition to these programmes, four competitions will be conducted: ‘Colour Koota’ (painting), Mangaluru Kambala Reels, Mangaluru Kambala Photography, and an AI Creative Yodha competition. These events are expected to attract participation from students, professionals and content creators, further broadening the festival’s appeal.
“The overall aim is to establish Mangaluru Kambala as a recognised cultural festival of Tulu Nadu,” Chowta said.
Event schedule and dignitaries
The Kambala will be inaugurated at 8.30 am by Chittaranjan, President of the Garodi Brahma Baiderkal Kshetra. The formal evening programme will be held at 6 pm under the chairmanship of Kambala Committee Honorary President Prakash Shetty. The prize distribution ceremony is scheduled for Sunday morning.
Competitions will be held in the Negilu Junior, Negilu Senior, Hagga Junior, Hagga Senior, Adda Halage and Kane Halage categories. Organisers expect around 160 to 170 pairs of buffaloes to participate, indicating strong interest from traditional Kambala households across the region.
Committee members present
Kambala Committee Convener Santyaguttu Sachin Shetty, General Secretary Sujit Pratap Mangalpadi, and committee members Sanjay Prabhu, Prasad Kumar Shetty, Vijayakumar Kenginmane, Joylus D’Souza, Kiran Kumar Kodikal, Vasanth J Poojary, Avinash Suvarna, Battira Ajith Bhopaiah, Abhishek Rai Kulalu, Guruchandra Hegde, Ishwar Prasad and others were present at the press conference.
Conclusion: With its blend of tradition, cultural expression and social outreach, the ninth floodlit Mangaluru Kambala is expected to reinforce the city’s identity as a vibrant centre of Tulu heritage while drawing wider national and international attention.