Kambala or Kamblā (Tulu, : ಕಂಬಳ ) is a traditional buffalo race in muddy waters, held from December till March. It is prominent in South Indian states of Karnataka and Kerala, particularly the districts of Udupi, Mangalore and Kasaragod.
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Format
Kambala is traditionally a simple sport. The 'track' used for Kambala is a paddy field filled with slush. The contest generally takes place between two pairs of buffaloes, controlled by a whip-lashing farmer. In olden days, the winning pair of buffaloes were rewarded with coconuts and a bunch of plantains. But, Kambala today has become an organised,professional sports. People place massive amounts of bets on the winning buffaloes and one can witness more than 20,000 spectators in a well organised Kambala, egging and cheering the buffaloes to complete the race. As of now, more than 45 races are held annually in Coastal Karnataka. Nearly 18 kambalas are held under the banner of Kambala Samithi and the rest are held under the auspices of temples and political patronage. Kambala still remains a hugely popular sport in Coastal Karnataka.
Opposition by Animal Lovers
Kambala has been criticised by animal lovers as inhumane and barbaric due to use of whips on participating buffaloes.[citation needed] Noted animal right activist, Mrs. Maneka Gandhi has expressed serious concerns about the ill treatment of buffaloes during the race. Kambala organisers, on their part, contend if the whips are not used on buffaloes, they may not participate in the race. However, no one in Coastal Karnataka is overtly bothered about excessive whipping and Kambala still continues to attract massive crowds in places where it is held.[citation needed]
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