Govt announces Rs 1 cr grant for Kambala

Bengaluru: The government has announced a grant of Rs 1 crore rupees for Kambala, the traditional buffalo race of coastal Karnataka. The amount announced by the government will be distributed to the 20 Kambala events that will be held in the state.

In a ceremony held at the city’s Palace Grounds on Wednesday morning, named “Bengaluru Kambala – Namma Kambala Kare Pooja” (Guddali Pooja), DK Shivakumar shared, “We will discuss the release of money for Kambala with the Chief Minister and the Kannada Culture Department. MLA Ashok Rai has requested all Kambala societies in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts to present a collective petition to the government.”

He emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting the local culture, stating, “It’s heartening to see the people of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi united under the leadership of MLA Ashok Rai to conserve and showcase our heritage.”

Furthermore, the Deputy Chief Minister stressed that development work at the Palace Ground should be considered in light of the event’s success.

He highlighted the cultural richness of the coastal part of Karnataka and the achievements of its people in various fields, including industry, education, hospitality, tourism, and banking. He commended the youth from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, who actively participated in the event, emphasizing the significance of preserving their culture.

Shivakumar expressed strong support for Kambala and praised the collective commitment of the people from Dakshina Kannada to conserve their rich cultural heritage, ensuring that the celebration of Dakshina Kannada finds a place in Bengaluru. He encouraged everyone to seize the opportunities granted by the divine without hesitation.

He said, “The people of Dakshina Kannada have come here with a commitment to preserve their culture. Namma ‘Kambalas’ in Bengaluru have received substantial government support, and we should always move forward and face any obstacles without fear.”