Mangaluru: The third edition of the Moodluru-Adduru Jodukere Gurupura Kambala was inaugurated on Saturday, April 4, at Manibettu Guthu, marking a vibrant celebration of Tulunadu’s rich cultural heritage. The event was held under the leadership of Kambala Committee president and KPCC general secretary Inayat Ali, drawing participation from community leaders, religious heads and cultural enthusiasts.
Cultural pride of Tulunadu highlighted
The Kambala was formally inaugurated by Anantha Padmanabha Asranna, priest of Kateel Sri Durgaparameshwari Temple. Addressing the gathering, he emphasised the cultural and social significance of the traditional buffalo race.
“Just as buffaloes are central to Kambala, spectators are equally important. Let us all come together to support Kambala, which represents the identity and culture of Tulunadu,” he said.
He also praised Inayat Ali for his inclusive leadership, noting that he treats all communities with respect. Asranna further observed that events like Kambala are helping showcase the unique traditions of Dakshina Kannada district on a wider, even international, platform.
Unique events under leadership
During the inaugural ceremony, Bantara Yane Nadavara Mathru Sangha president Ajith Rai Malady lit the ceremonial lamp. He remarked that the third edition of the Kambala, organised under the leadership of Inayat Ali, stands out for its distinctive planning and execution compared to other such events in the region.
The programme was presided over by Inayat Ali, who reiterated his commitment to preserving and promoting traditional cultural practices while also supporting social welfare initiatives.
Financial aid distributed for social causes
A notable highlight of the event was the distribution of financial assistance amounting to Rs 25 lakh for various social causes. The aid was extended towards marriage support and housing assistance for underprivileged families, reflecting the organisers’ focus on community welfare alongside cultural promotion.
Presence of dignitaries
The inaugural function witnessed the presence of several prominent personalities from religious, social and administrative fields. Among those present were Moodluru Mundittaya Daivasthana Tantri G T Vasudeva Bhat; District Kambala Committee working president Gunapala Kadamba; Manur Subraya Temple president Shashidhar Bhat Bollarguthu; Golidadi Guthu Gadikara Vardhaman Shetty; Kodetturu Guthu Nitin Shetty; Padmaraj R Poojary; Ravish Shetty Nitteguthu; Gurupura Venkataramana Temple administrative Moktesar Panduranga Kamath; Adyapadi Daivalangalagudde Neelakantha Umamaheshwari Temple administrative Moktesar Manjunath Bhandary; Doninje Guthu Gadipradhan Pramod Kumar Rai; Chandrahsa Poojary; Taniya Poojary; Jatti Poojary; State Dharmika Parishat Member Mallika Pakkala; Purushothama Chitrapur; M J Hegde; District Dharmika Parishat member Lakshmeesha Gabaladka; Shivarama Multi; Shelton Pinto; Kambala Committee honorary president Padmanabha Kotyan; working president Jagadeesh Shetty of Manibettu Guthu; and general secretary Yashwanth Kumar Shetty Bellurguthu, among others.
Well-organised programme
The event commenced with a welcome address by Kambala Committee founder president Raj Kumar Shetty Thiruvailuguthu. The proceedings were compered by Vijeth Shetty Manjanady and Manoj Vamanjoor, ensuring smooth conduct of the inaugural ceremony.
The Kambala is expected to attract large crowds over its course, with participants and spectators coming together to celebrate one of the most iconic rural sports traditions of coastal Karnataka.
Conclusion
The successful inauguration of the Moodluru-Adduru Jodukere Gurupura Kambala reflects the enduring appeal of traditional sports in preserving regional identity. By blending cultural celebration with social responsibility, the organisers have reinforced the importance of community-driven initiatives in sustaining heritage and fostering unity.