The contest of buffaloes is called “Kambala” or “Kambula” a sporting race in muddy water. Coastal Karnataka is the true home of the athletic buffalo. Kambula races are held from December till March. Every weekend one could see the buffalo races in Coastal Karnataka. Four decades ago the buffalo race was held only on religious occasions, on the days of “Kodamantaaya” and Jumaadi Bhuuta spirits festivals.
At that time there was only a single track where the buffalo race was conducted. Then also the buffaloes ran in pairs. The winner was awarded a coconut and a bunch of plantains, but no music accompanied the race except the “Koragas Drum” music. Today, “Kambula” sport or racing has gained immense popularity. Modern “Kambula”s are massive, professionally organized day and night with electric illumination. One could see more than 20,000 spectators in a well organised “Kambula” and up to 130 pairs of buffaloes may participate.
Kambala, still a favourite sport of the villagers is held every year – Lava-Kusha Kambala on the first Sunday of February at Bajagoli, Karkala Taluk and on every December 12th Vandaru Arasu Kambala in Kundapur taluk.
Scheduled dates and places of Kambala 2025–26
The Kambala season promises high-speed excitement and traditional fervour as farmers prepare their buffaloes to race through the muddy paddy fields, showcasing a vibrant cultural heritage that captivates thousands each year.
- November 15, 2025 – Panapila
- November 22, 2025 – Kodange
- November 29, 2025 – Kakkepadavu
- December 6, 2025 – Hokkadi
- December 7, 2025 – Ballamanja
- December 13, 2025 – (Date announced; venue yet to be confirmed)
- December 20, 2025 – Mulki
- December 27, 2025 – Mangaluru
- January 3, 2026 – Miyyaru
- January 10, 2026 – Naringana
- January 17, 2026 – Adde
- January 24, 2026 – Moodbidri
- January 31, 2026 – Aikala
- February 7, 2026 – Puttur
- February 14, 2026 – Jeppu
- February 21, 2026 – Vamanjoor
- February 28, 2026 – Ermala
- March 7, 2026 – Bantwal
- March 15, 2026 – Bangadi
- March 21, 2026 – Venur
- March 28, 2026 – Uppinangadi
- April 4, 2026 – Gurupura
- April 11, 2026 – Ballunji
To get more information regarding kambala- kindly
contact the following co-ordiantor
K.Gunapala Kadamba M.A.,
Mudabidri – 574 227
Dakshina Kannad District Karnataka, India
Phone: +91 0825-8237117 0825- 283283
Mobile +91 0 98451 12015
Compiled By: S. A. Krishnaiah
mmusica@sancharnet.in musica_2005@dataone.in
