Kambala: A Unique Rural Sport in Karnataka
Karnataka is a diverse state in India, and the traditional sport of Kambala is a testament to its vibrant culture. Kambala is a unique rural sport that involves two pairs of water buffalo racing in a slushy track. It is conducted in the Karnataka districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and some parts of Shivamogga.
Kambala is a traditional sport of the Tuluva community in Karnataka. Every year, between November and March, this sport is conducted in the paddy fields located in the coastal areas of Karnataka. This ancient sport has been a part of the culture of the region for centuries.
What is Kambala?
Kambala is a traditional sport where two pairs of buffaloes are raced on a slushy track. The race is conducted in two rounds, each round being around 135-150 meters long. The buffaloes are driven by a pair of men known as ‘Kaapu’, who use a long wooden stick to encourage the buffaloes and keep them running on the track. The team which completes the race first is declared as the winner.
The buffaloes are decorated with colorful garlands and bells, and the Kaapu are dressed in traditional attire. The entire event is accompanied by loud music and cheering from the spectators.
History of Kambala
Kambala has a long and rich history in Karnataka. It is believed that the sport was started by the Alupas, a dynasty that ruled over the coastal Karnataka region during the 11th century. The sport was conducted as part of the celebration of their victory in the battle against the Cholas.
Kambala was a popular sport in the region until the early 19th century. During that time, it was conducted as part of the local festivals and was also used as a means of entertainment for the local kings. Kambala was also used to identify the strongest and fastest team in the region.
Kambala Today
Kambala is still a popular sport in coastal Karnataka. It is conducted in the villages and towns of the region as part of the local festivals. The event is managed by the local Kambala committees, which are responsible for organizing the event and collecting the entry fees from the participants.
The sport has now gained popularity in other parts of Karnataka as well. The state government has also been supportive of the sport and has taken measures to promote and popularize the sport in the state.
The Future of Kambala
Kambala has been a part of the culture of the region for centuries. It is a unique rural sport which is deeply rooted in the culture of the Tuluva community. The sport has gained popularity in other parts of Karnataka as well.
The state government is taking steps to promote and popularize the sport. This includes providing financial assistance to the local Kambala committees to conduct the event. The government has also proposed to build a Kambala stadium in Mangalore to host the event.
Conclusion
Kambala is a unique rural sport that is deeply rooted in the culture of the coastal Karnataka region. It is a traditional sport which has been part of the culture for centuries. The sport has gained popularity in other parts of Karnataka as well, and the state government is taking steps to promote and popularize it. Kambala is a unique and exciting sport that is worth experiencing.