Tag: Arasu Kambala

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