Kambala is a popular and unique festival (or sports) that happens annually among the farming communities in Dakshina Kannada. To your surprise, the main superstar of this festival is the big Buffaloes. In other words, Kambala is a buffalo race that happens on the slushy paddy fields between a pair of buffaloes that is driven by farmers. These races that take place between the months of November and March are organized by Tuluva landlords and households.
Kambala is an age-long tradition that traces back to 1000 years. This festival is dedicated to Lord Kadri Manjunatha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. Earlier days, this was celebrated to please god for a good harvest and to keep crops away from diseases. And, also for the entertainment of villages of this region. Slowly these traditions are officially converted to races, mainly to preserve the tradition and carry forwards the customs to future generations.
Usually, the winner of this race is gifted with banana and coconut. However, in recent years as these races are pulling in a huge number of crowds, the winners are gifted with cold or silver coins. Above all, winning this competition is all about pride for farmers rather than money involved in it.
There are 4 major categories of Kambala namely Negilu, Hagga, Adda Halage, and Kene Halege. Winners of these events are judged based on various factors. These races are conducted on slushy paddy fields that are about 150 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Over 50 races are held annually and nearly 130 to 180 pairs of buffaloes participate in it
Initially, it was known by the name “Karaga” but now it is called Kambala. The word Kambala is derived from Dravidian origin word “ Kampa Kala” which means “slushy Muddy fields”
Hoysala Kings Association With Kambala
As per the legends, it was Hoysala rulers, who wanted to use trained buffaloes for their wars. After noticing the speed of buffaloes, they started racing them against one another. Later the tradition was carried forward by feudal lords and now it is organized by normal people.
Famous Places Where Kambala Can be Viewed
Of course, Kadri Kambala Field in Mangalore is gotta be on top of the list. It is a star-studded event which is usually conducted in the close premises of Kadri Manjunatha Temple. These sports were patronized by the Kings Of Alupa Kingdom who ruled Mangalore 300 years ago. For the above reasons, this festival is popularly known as “Devara Kambala” or “Arasu Kambala”.Another place, where you can see huge followers is Pilikula.
Apart from this, you can visit places like Bajagodi, Baladi Beedu, Puttur, Gulvadi, Vandaru Kamala Ketu, Uppinagadi, etc.
Usually, in Vandaro and Choradi village you can witness this festival being celebrated to please god for a good harvest and it is a non-competitive event.
How are Buffaloes Trained
Nowadays, Kambala is organized Professionally with a huge crowd to cheer them. Buffaloes are trained and prepared well throughout the year, just to participate in events. These beasts are provided with proper food on time, massaged regularly to prevent injuries, medical checkups are done frequently, and even a personal caretaker is appointed to look after them. In addition to this, there are main owners who have gone one step ahead and built swimming pools just for Buffaloes to relax.
Not to mention, the fact that these buffaloes are decorated in a beautiful way with lots of colors.
In the recent past, these events are held at nights under floodlights. Whole areas will be lit up with colorful lights, small handicraft shops, and eateries. Every year nearly 20,000 people come to witness Kambala.
Also, Read: Udupi Travel Guide.
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