CM formally flags off Kambala

• Criticism may arise, but it fades. What endures are our actions: D.K. Shivakumar
• Kambala will conclude with valedictory ceremony between 7 pm and 9 pm

Mysuru: Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar yesterday evening formally flagged off Mysuru’s first-ever Kambala buffalo race, bringing the coastal Karnataka tradition to the Dasara celebrations.

The two-day event, organised by the Kambala Sub-Committee on the Mysuru Development Authority (MDA) land on the Outer Ring Road near VTU Regional Centre at Sathagalli, drew thousands of spectators.

“Kambala is rooted in agriculture, born of farmers’ toil and celebrated as a post-harvest festival. It embodies devotion, tradition and the strength of our culture,” Shivakumar said.

Recalling the sport’s history, he said, it began 800 years ago as a prayer to Kadri Manjunatha for farmers’ survival. He compared ‘Kambala’ with Tamil Nadu’s ‘Jallikattu’, noting that both traditions had triggered national debates and Legislative action.

Stressing that Karnataka’s strength lay in its diversity, Shivakumar said, “Our culture is our strength, our tradition our pride. Criticism may arise, but it fades. What endures are our actions. Through Dasara, people should witness and enjoy every tradition of our land.”

The Government has sanctioned Rs. 5 lakh each to 23 Kambala teams, with nearly 3,000 participants arriving from coastal Karnataka. The CM also highlighted the historical links between the coast and the region, noting that even the Vijayanagar kings had honoured coastal buffaloes. He said that a book on this heritage would be released soon.

The races thrilled spectators, with officials reporting that buffaloes covered 100 metres in just nine seconds. Shivakumar expressed confidence that, with structured training, Kambala runners could excel in athletics.

Ministers C. Puttarangashetty, N. Cheluvarayaswamy, U.T. Khader and Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah, MLAs G.T. Devegowda, Tanveer Sait and K. Harishgowda, Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai and others were present.

Dasara reels contest

Shivakumar also announced a Statewide reels competition, inviting people to create reels on Dasara events, including illumination, Jumboo Savari and sports.

“People across Karnataka can create reels on any Dasara event — illumination, Jumboo Savari & sports — and tag the official Mysuru Dasara page at https://mysoredasara.gov.in/. The best 100 reels will win prizes,” he said.