Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Oct 10: In a landmark decision blending tradition with modern governance, the Karnataka government has officially recognised Kambala, the centuries-old buffalo race native to the coastal belt, as a state-sanctioned sport. This recognition comes with the formation of the Karnataka State Kambala Association under the Karnataka Sports Authority, granting Kambala formal legitimacy, structure, and scope for state-level promotion.

“This is not just recognition of a sport; it’s a validation of our cultural pride,” said a senior official from the Sports Department, welcoming the move that is expected to invigorate local participation and preserve a heritage deeply rooted in Tulunadu’s agrarian past.

The association has been granted official status for a term of three years, or until further orders. As per government guidelines, the association is required to submit several mandatory documents annually by June 30. These include a detailed administrative activity report, audited financial statement, records of annual general and executive committee meetings, and a calendar of events.

Furthermore, a renewed certificate under the Karnataka Societies Registration Act, 1960 must be submitted to maintain compliance.

First state-level meet in Bengaluru

The inaugural meeting of the newly recognised body is scheduled for October 15 in Bengaluru, chaired by the principal secretary of the Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports. Key on the agenda is the approval of the draft by-laws of the association, which will lay the foundation for how Kambala is organised and regulated across the state.

“This formal framework allows us to take Kambala beyond local fields and into the mainstream of Karnataka’s sports calendar,” a source close to the association told Daijiworld.com. “It opens doors to better infrastructure, training, and possibly, national attention,” the source added.

Leadership appointments announced

Leading the charge is Belapu Deviprasad Shetty, who has been appointed as the first president of the Karnataka State Kambala Association. Joining him on the executive panel are Naveenchandra Alva of Thiruvailuguttu, Vamanjoor as vice-president, Vijay Kumar Kanginamane of Karkala as secretary, and Lokesh Shetty of Muchchuru as treasurer.

With official backing now in place, enthusiasts believe that Kambala will finally get the recognition, regulation, and respect it has long deserved — not just as a rural sport, but as a vibrant symbol of Karnataka’s cultural identity.