Mysuru: As Mysuru prepares to host its first-ever Kambala race during the Dasara 2026 celebrations, the proposal has generated both enthusiasm and opposition, with supporters calling it a major attraction for tourists while environmentalists question its impact on the city’s ecology and infrastructure.
The traditional buffalo race, synonymous with coastal Karnataka, is expected to become one of the highlights of this year’s Dasara festivities if all necessary approvals are secured.
Kambala to debut at Mysuru Dasara
The proposal to include Kambala in Mysuru Dasara was first announced by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar last year. Although the event was initially planned for Dasara 2025, it could not be organised due to the absence of a suitable venue.
This year, the state government has revived the proposal, with the two-day event tentatively scheduled for October 18 and 19.
Kambala, a traditional buffalo race conducted on slush tracks in coastal Karnataka, is expected to feature around 200 buffaloes competing in both daytime and night races.
Preparations under way
The state government has entrusted Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai with overseeing the organisation of the event.
Rai recently inspected two potential venues in Mysuru and said that land near the Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) in Sathagalli Layout has been identified as a suitable location.
Once the site receives final approval, experts will begin preparing the specialised slush track required for the races.
Officials estimate that organising the event will cost between ₹5 crore and ₹8 crore.
Environmentalists raise objections
The proposal has drawn criticism from environmental activists, who argue that the selected site is environmentally sensitive.
Activist Banu Mohan claimed that the land identified for the event was once part of a lake and had earlier been proposed for a stadium project that was eventually shelved following environmental objections.
She alleged that earthmoving activities and tree felling had begun before activists, with support from the Forest Department, intervened to halt the work.
Environmental groups are now preparing to submit formal objections, expressing concerns that the event could lead to increased traffic congestion, environmental degradation and damage to the area’s ecological balance.
Residents question public expenditure
Some residents have also opposed the proposal, questioning the use of public funds for organising the event.
Resident Raghava argued that nearly 20 acres of land would be required for the race track, in addition to parking facilities and other infrastructure.
He also expressed concerns regarding animal welfare and the environmental impact of hosting the event outside its traditional setting.
According to him, those interested in witnessing Kambala can visit coastal Karnataka, where the sport has been practised for generations.
Youth welcome the initiative
Despite the criticism, the proposal has received strong support from many residents, particularly young people.
Nayankumar, an IT professional from Mysuru currently working in Bengaluru, said introducing new attractions would enhance the appeal of Mysuru Dasara and attract more tourists from across the country.
He also pointed out that the Supreme Court had earlier dismissed a petition seeking to restrict Kambala exclusively to coastal Karnataka, thereby allowing the traditional sport to be organised elsewhere in the state.
Supporters believe hosting Kambala during Dasara would showcase Karnataka’s diverse cultural traditions while providing visitors with a unique experience.
Balancing tradition and sustainability
As preparations continue, authorities will need to address environmental concerns while ensuring adequate infrastructure, crowd management and animal welfare standards.
If implemented successfully, the event could become a permanent feature of Mysuru Dasara. However, balancing cultural celebration with environmental protection and responsible public spending is likely to remain at the centre of the ongoing debate.
The final decision on the venue and necessary approvals is expected in the coming weeks.