• UGI USER
  • Nov 24, 2023
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KAMBALA FESTIVAL

Why in the News?

  • Karnataka’s political rivals, Congress and BJP, join hands for Kambala, a traditional buffalo race in Bengaluru.
  • Scheduled for November 25-26, this collaboration transcends ideological differences.
Source: Times of India

Kambala: Traditional Buffalo Race

  • Kambala is a traditional buffalo race held in slush-filled paddy fields, primarily in coastal Karnataka from November to March.
  • Historically sponsored by local Tuluva landlords and households in coastal districts, the Tuluva people are the native ethnic group of Southern India.

Racing Dynamics

  • During Kambala, racers control buffaloes by holding reins tight and using whips.
  • Originally non-competitive, buffalo pairs raced sequentially in paddy fields, serving as a thanksgiving ritual for animal well-being.

Controversial Aspects

  • Animal activists criticize Kambala, citing cruelty concerns and arguing that it violates the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
  • Opponents claim buffaloes run in fear of beatings, prompting debates on ethical treatment.

Supreme Court Ban and Amendment

  • In 2014, the Supreme Court banned Kambala along with jallikattu and bullock-cart races, citing cruelty.
  • The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance, 2017, later permitted Kambala with measures to prevent cruelty.

Both Kambala and jallikattu have faced controversies regarding animal welfare and legal regulations.