Kambala should be retained: Vajubhai Vala

Bengaluru: Vajubhai Vala, governor of Karnataka addressing the gathering after inaugurating Tulu Literary Festival held here on Sunday urged people to save kambala, which is an annual festival in coastal parts of Karnataka, which has come under the scanner.

“Those with guts participate in Kambala. The man competes with buffaloes in 400 metres, 800 metres and one-kilometre races. How does it amount to animal cruelty? It is a pure sport. There is no harm to any animal. Instead, their strength will improve,” he said.

Expressing concern towards retaining folk and culture said “Kambala is a pure sport which comprises full of enthusiasm and adventure and keeps sportsmanship spirit alive, it can’t be claimed as animal cruelty. Animals participating in Kambalas are never harmed. In fact, participation in Kambala events makes them stronger in the long run,”

Vala advised the people that this is the right time for them to bring pressure on politicians as politicians are known to yield when an election is around the corner. “You should use this golden opportunity. Do not lose it. The chances of politicians acceding to your demands are maximum at this juncture,” he advised. He asked those who are averse to Kambalas to choose some other sport like Kabaddi or Kho Kho.

Vala said that he will recommend inclusion of Tulu in the eighth schedule of the constitution if there is strong demand for according recognition to Tulu language.