The much-anticipated annual Kambala season, the traditional slush track buffalo race, is all set to commence in coastal Karnataka on November 15th. The first event will take place in Panapila, marking the start of a vibrant season organized by the Karnataka State Kambala Association.
A total of 25 races are scheduled throughout the season, which will conclude on April 25th of next year with the final event at Badagabettu. Most races will be held on Saturdays, with just one exception scheduled for a Sunday: the Ballamanja race on December 7th. Enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the Mangaluru Kambala, which is slated for December 27th.
Belapu Deviprasad Shetty, president of the association, recently announced significant changes for the upcoming season. To enhance the experience, the duration of each Kambala has been extended from 24 hours to a generous 30 hours. Furthermore, a crucial new regulation, issued by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, prohibits buffaloes aged below three years from participating in any of the races, underscoring a commitment to animal welfare.
Following its recognition by the Sports Authority of Karnataka on October 7th as a State sports institution, the Karnataka State Kambala Association will ensure all events adhere to the authority’s comprehensive guidelines. A white flag, proudly displaying the emblems of Kambala, Tulu Nadu, and the Karnataka government, will be hoisted before the start of each event. Local organizers must strictly follow these guidelines to qualify for government grants.
While the Mulky Kambala is tentatively scheduled for December 20th, its exact date may be subject to change based on decisions by local organizers. The races will feature various competitive categories, including ‘hagga hiriya’, ‘hagga kiriya’, ‘naegilu hiriya’, ‘naegilu kiriya’, ‘kane halage’, and ‘adda halage’.
However, some changes are also on the horizon. Vijaya Kumar Kanginamane, secretary of the association, indicated that Kambalas in Bengaluru and Shivamogga are unlikely to be part of the 2025-26 season roster as they have not yet been listed. Similarly, the Pilikula Kambala faces uncertainty due to an ongoing dispute, with the matter currently under review by the Karnataka High Court.
Mr. Kanginamane also highlighted that “Kodi Kambalas,” which are traditional, non-racing events rooted in farming activities, commenced in the coastal belt on October 17th and will continue for approximately a month. These traditional events, numbering between 100 and 125 annually across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, play a vital role in local agricultural customs but are distinct from the competitive races.