What is kambala?
Kambala is a traditional buffalo race held in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka.
It is a popular sport in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, as well as Kasaragod in Kerala.
The race is typically held between November and March, after the paddy harvest is complete.
The Kambala race track is a slushy paddy field, and the buffaloes are driven by a whip-lashing farmer.
The buffaloes are specially trained for the races, and they can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.
The races are typically short, with the buffaloes running about 100 meters.
There are two main types of Kambala races:
Negara Kambata: This is the traditional form of the race, and it is non-competitive. The buffaloes are run one at a time, and the goal is simply to complete the race.
Kene Kambata: This is the more modern form of the race, and it is competitive. Two pairs of buffaloes are run against each other, and the first pair to cross the finish line wins.
COMMENTS