Kambala (Tulu: ಕಂಬಳ) is an annual Buffalo Race held traditionally under the auspices of aristocratic Bunt Households (Aramane,Beedu,Guthu/Mane) in coastal Karnataka,India.The Kambala season generally starts in November and lasts until March.Since the last two decades nearly 18 kambalas are held under the banner of Kambala Samithi (Kambala Association).As of now,more than 45 races are held annually in Coastal Karnataka.
[edit] 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 was rewarded with coconuts and a bunch of plantains. However, Kambala today has become an organised,professional sport. People place massive bets on the buffaloes to win and one can witness more than 20,000 spectators in a well-organised Kambala, egging on and cheering the buffaloes to complete the race.
[edit] Opposition by Animal Lovers
Kambala has been criticised by animal lovers as inhumane and barbaric due to use of whips on the participating buffaloes.[citation needed] Noted animal-rights activist, Mrs. Maneka Gandhi has expressed serious concerns about the ill treatment of buffaloes during the race. Kambala organisers, on their part, contend that if whips are not used on the buffaloes, they may not participate properly 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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