Mangaluru
Bringing fresh structure to the coastal region’s celebrated buffalo race, the Karnataka State Kambala Association will soon release its official rulebook, flag, and emblem, Association President Belapu Deviprasad Shetty announced here today.
The development follows the Sports Authority of Karnataka’s October 7 notification granting State-level recognition to the Association for three years, marking a key milestone for the sport’s formalisation.
Explaining the reforms, Secretary and referee Vijay Kumar Kanginamane said new rules will apply uniformly to all Kambalas. Notably, organisers must ensure jockeys or handlers do not whip or strike buffaloes after the race track ends. Electronic sensors will monitor starts and finishes to deliver accurate timing data. “Any Kambala found violating these norms will face suspension or blacklisting,” he warned.
The Association will unveil the full rulebook and emblem at its upcoming general body meeting.
The 2025-26 Kambala calendar features 25 traditional events across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, beginning with Panapila Kambala on November 15 and ending with Harekala (April 18) and Badagabettu (April 25) — both new additions.
Mr. Shetty said Bengaluru Kambala could be revived if there is sufficient interest, while a Mysuru Dasara Kambala is also being explored.
Citing rising organisational costs of about ₹40 lakh per event, the Association has urged the government to raise assistance from ₹2 lakh to ₹8 lakh per organiser. It is also exploring an IPL-style sponsorship model to attract private and corporate partners to sustain the sport’s future.