Kambala continued for the second day on Monday attracting enthusiasts to Mysuru
A 145-metre twin slush track (jodu kare), modelled on the traditional coastal format, was specially created for the event and functioned without major issues. Praveen Kotian from Moodabidri, a jockey with 12 years of experience, said succeeding in kambala requires daily training, a strict diet and unwavering commitment. Around 150 jockeys and 150-160 pairs of top-tier buffaloes participated in the event. Organisers said buffalo owners typically spend Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh per pair over five days on transport, fodder, food and remuneration for handlers.
Vishwanath Devadiga of Byndoor, who has been racing for a decade, said he competes each season as a jockey for at least three pairs of buffaloes and has won several medals.
Buffalo owners and jockeys said they were delighted to showcase the traditional sport beyond the coastal belt, contributing to the strong turnout. Rohan Fernandez from Karkala said he was happy to bring his buffaloes, Max and Kutti, to Mysuru despite the exhausting journey. Organised for the first time during Dasara despite initial opposition from some quarters, the overnight kambala received an overwhelming response from spectators and participants alike. Teams from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts travelled to Mysuru to take part in the event. This was only the second time kambala was organised outside the coastal region, after Bengaluru. Though intermittent rain affected the ambience, the event concluded peacefully. Jockeys highlighted that kambala demands exceptional fitness, discipline and rigorous training, as participants face risks such as muscle injuries and fractures. He added that race outcomes often depend on track conditions and the skill of the ottugara (barefoot runner).