Saturday, 22 February 2014

'Kambala'-The Olympic of Dakshina Kannada keeps 'Tulu culture' alive

           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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