Bengaluru Kambala: Kudi Kambala held with fanfare

Bengaluru: The Kudi Kambala, a precursor to the buffalo races of the debut Bengaluru Kambala, commenced with grandeur at the Palace Ground’s 5th gate on Thursday. Ashok Rai, president of the Bengaluru Kambala Committee inaugurated the event.

Women performed the Kere Pooja rituals, with committee office bearers actively participating. The trial saw experimental runs by various buffalo pairs, receiving positive feedback from experts, assuring the track’s readiness.

A notable prelude to the Bengaluru Kambala was the presence of three pairs of Buffalos from Dakshina Kannada at the Kudi Kambala trials, adding a special fervor to the occasion.

The inaugural Bengaluru Kambala is scheduled to begin at 10:30 am start on Saturday, but the actual sporting event will unfold in the evening, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s anticipated arrival at 5:30 pm. MLA Ashok Rai highlighted the event’s customary continuation until midnight.

Purpose of Kudi Kambala

The Kudi Kambala serves as a crucial preparatory step before the Kambala competitions in the coastal areas. Acting as a rehearsal, it tests the track’s suitability for the Buffalo races, allowing for adjustments in soil and sand distribution. Committee working president Muralidhar Rai Matanthabettu assured that the Bengaluru Kambala track underwent necessary corrections and is in optimal condition for the races.

Heartening response from buffalo owners

Owners of buffalos from Dakshina Kannada expressed delight at their racing buffalos running in Bengaluru. They highlighted their extensive preparations and meticulous care for the buffalos that had to travel all the way from the coast to the capital city, including providing water, mainly hot water, fetched from their village.

Arrival and rest of the buffalos

Over 160 pairs of buffalos partaking the races arrived at the Palace Grounds late at night on Thursday, transported in batches to prevent traffic congestion. After an exhaustive journey from Uppinangady to Bengaluru, the buffalos were visibly fatigued. Their initial agitation upon encountering the bustling cityscape was calmed by attending helpers, ensuring their rest and comfort within specially prepared areas.

Warm welcome in Hassan

The Kambala buffalos en route to Bengaluru received an enthusiastic reception in Hassan. As the 175 pairs of buffalos reached Hassan, locals, adorned in pink mundus, greeted them near Devarayapatnam with cheers and slogans. The animals were carefully unloaded and attended to at the city’s Government Engineering College grounds, receiving nourishment and care. The ‘Karavali Mitra Mandali’ in Hassan organized a lunch for stall owners and attendants, enhancing the warm welcome extended to the Konas.