Bengaluru gears up for debut 'Kambala' buffalo race on November 25 and 26
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Bengaluru: Bengaluru is all set to stage its debut Kambala event - the buffalo race from coastal Karnataka - on November 25 and 26 at the Palace Grounds.
Beyond the adrenaline-filled 'Kambala' races, the organisers aim to bring the complete essence of coastal Karnataka's culture within the state capital during this two-day event.
"This marks our commitment to bring the vibrant tradition of 'Kambala' from 'Tulunadu' - stretching from Kasaragod to Maravanthe beach - to Bengaluru. We're excited to showcase the cultural heritage and cuisine of coastal Karnataka," expressed Prakash Shetty, the chairperson of the organising committee.
Shetty emphasised the coastal community's intent to exhibit 'Kambala' to a broader audience, citing the intrigue sparked by the portrayal of the race in the Kannada blockbuster 'Kantara.'
A total of 139 pairs of racing buffaloes, originating from the coastal region, are en route to Bengaluru. HD Revanna, former Minister and Hole Narasipura MLA, has pledged sponsorship for their accommodation and meals.
Ensuring a seamless event, the organisers have taken meticulous care to transport water for the buffaloes to prevent any disturbance to their routine.
Honouring key personalities, the main stage has been named after the late Kannada actor Puneeth Rajkumar, while the event is dedicated to the erstwhile Mysuru Maharaja, Sri Krishna Raja Wadiyar.
With expectations of a turnout of around two lakh people, the event's estimated budget ranges from Rs 7.5 to Rs 8 crore. Prizes for the winners include 16 grams of gold and Rs 1 lakh for the champion, eight grams of gold and Rs 50,000 for the first runner-up, and four grams of gold and Rs 25,000 for the third position.
Highlighting the cultural significance, Puttur Congress MLA Ashok Kumar Rai stressed that the event is a tribute to the rich heritage of coastal Karnataka, transcending monetary rewards.
The event embraces diversity, with participation from six Muslim and four Christian groups, reflecting its inclusive nature.
Adding glamour to the affair, celebrities like Anushka Shetty, renowned for her role in 'Bahubali' and hailing from coastal Karnataka, are set to grace the event to cheer on the racing participants.
In a bid to maintain a calm environment, photographers are requested not to use flash photography, as it might agitate the buffaloes, and news channels have been advised against setting up their cameras, as high-end cameras have been arranged to document the races.