Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Jul 11: Karnataka Kambala Association president Devi Prasad Shetty defended the proposal to organise Kambala during the Mysuru Dasara celebrations, asserting that the traditional buffalo race would not spoil the festival but instead strengthen Karnataka's cultural heritage.
Addressing the media Devi Prasad Shetty said the Karnataka government has constituted a state Kambala Association and that the court has permitted Kambala to be organised anywhere in the state. He noted that although the sport has traditionally been held in Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Kasaragod, it can now be conducted across Karnataka.
"Kambala is not associated with any one religion, caste or political party. Hindus, Muslims, Christians, the rich and the poor all participate in and celebrate Kambala. Our intention is to introduce this tradition to more people," he said.
Rejecting concerns that Kambala would dilute the significance of Mysuru Dasara, he said there is no difference between the cultural traditions of coastal Karnataka and Mysore. He recalled that the sport received the patronage of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar and the Mysore royal family, adding that Kambala was historically organised in regions under the Mysore kingdom.
He said the sport has evolved with the participation of youth, farmers, businessmen and various organisations while preserving its traditional values. "Kambala will not spoil Mysuru Dasara. It will only add to Karnataka's rich cultural heritage," he said.
Dismissing allegations that Kambala promotes caste discrimination, he said such claims are baseless. He maintained that Kambala has always been a farmers' sport involving people from all sections of society and is conducted under government supervision.
On animal welfare, Devi Prasad Shetty said buffaloes are treated like family members and cared for throughout the year. "They race only for around 90 days in a year, while they are looked after with great care during the remaining months. They are never harmed during the races," he said.
He also said Kambala has earned international recognition and requires minimal infrastructure to organise. If cost is a concern, he added, several enthusiasts are willing to sponsor the event, emphasising that Kambala is driven by passion rather than profit.
Thanking the chief minister for supporting the proposal, he urged critics to understand the history and traditions of Kambala before opposing its inclusion in the Mysuru Dasara celebrations.