Kambala is one of the unique practices of
Tulu culture. Kambala or buffalo race reminds people of the cultural
tradition of their forefathers who began it and passed it on to the next
generation. It is alive and active among the farmers’ community because they
value it and add meaning to the practice by holding competitions. This is
also considered as the sports of farmers who participate faithfully in
Kambala every year. Places like Puthur, Udupi, and Mangalore have
particular spots for conducting competitions. This act of the farmers not
only brings the farmers’ community together but also the new and young
generation which can witness and appreciate it. Therefore the buffalo race
is celebrated as ‘Kambala’ in various places of Karnataka.
The two aspects of Kambala are the skill of the
racer and the role of buffaloes. The competitors are capable of
participating in Kambala because they know the art and they feel that it
is meant for them. The splash of mucky water and the beating of drums by
the musicians create a sense of celebration among the audience. Suruchi
Dumpawar, a photographer shares in her article on ‘Kambala: Buffalo Racing
in Muddy Water’, that two tracks are dug up in such a way that they are
filled with mucky water and slush. The feet of the track normally kept up
to 450 ft.
While some of the old practices in all the traditions
of India are dying ‘Kambala,’ becomes unique because it has acquired its
due place in the hearts of people.
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