Mangaluru: Kambala season commences with new rules

Kambala, a traditional buffalo race of Tulu Nadu, is set to begin with a focus on strict time management this year. The District Kambala Committee has implemented new guidelines to ensure timely execution.

In the past, delays often occurred in preparing the buffaloes for each category. To address this, each race category must now be completed within 30 minutes, and buffaloes must be prepared and ready within the stipulated time. If they are not ready within 2 minutes (Junior) or 5 minutes (Senior) of the scheduled time, a walkover will be given to the competing pair.

Racer participation limits

Each racer may participate with a maximum of four buffalo pairs across various categories. If a racer competes in Category A and B (both belonging to the same owner), they can only participate in three categories. Racers fielding three pairs (A, B, C) may enter with one additional pair, while releasing participants must use only one pair in each category. Additionally, each competition must begin within 10 minutes of the previous one, and the timing of each event must be announced at that point.

Stringent shading rules

Any buffalo pair that won prizes in the previous season will face “shading” restrictions this season, meaning they cannot compete under the same conditions as last year. If a pair competes under a different owner’s name, shading will not apply.

New app and timer update

With an increase in the Junior Division entries, the organizers will use an app to manage queueing. Participants must register at the Manjotti entry point before the race. LED timers will be placed at the starting line to maintain time discipline, and a siren system will be used for alerts.

Traditional Kambala Schedule: Starts at 10:45 AM, concludes at 10:45 AM the next day.
Other Kambalas: Start at 9:00 AM, conclude at 9:00 AM the next day.
Allotted Time for Each Race

Senior Hagga: 10 minutes
Junior Hagga: 7 minutes
Senior Negilu: 8 minutes
Junior Negilu: 6 minutes
Adda Halghe: 10 minutes

Judging rules

Thirty minutes before each Kambala event, two referees for the race and three for the Manjotti entry, along with one scribe, must be present. Referees will work in rotation from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM, then switch every two hours. Manjotti referees will monitor sensor lights and timings; however, timing should not rely solely on lights. Third umpire decisions may be taken if required.

“Kambala traditions vary, and everyone has their perspectives. Nevertheless, implementing changes for an organized and accurate system is essential. This season, new rules will help ensure this.”
– Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, President, District Kambala Committee