Bengaluru, Nov 1: India’s IT hub Bengaluru is getting ready to host the famous traditional sport Kambala, the buffalo racing spectacle from coastal Karnataka that has gained nationwide attention after the success of the blockbuster film ‘Kantara’ . This event is going to be held next month.
In an important function organized at the Palace Ground in Bengaluru, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar participated in the ‘kere puja’ (ground breaking ceremony) on Wednesday. At the event titled “Bengaluru Kambala-Namma Kambala”, Shivakumar announced a grant of Rs 1 crore from the state government to support and promote the Kambala game. Additionally, an amount of Rs five lakh will be allocated for each of the 20 Kambala events.
Emphasizing the importance of the indigenous and historical Kambala game, Shivakumar pledged to encourage its growth within the state. He also mentioned plans to discuss with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the Department of Kannada and Culture to release funds dedicated to the Kambala game.
Shivakumar lauded the joint efforts of the people of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi under the leadership of MLA Ashok Rai in preserving and nurturing the Kambala game. He highlighted the importance of the sector, recognizing its contribution to education, industry, hospitality, tourism and banking sectors. Rai’s initiative to start Kambala in Bengaluru was appreciated for its commendable approach.
Acknowledging the cultural wealth of the nation, Shivakumar stressed the importance of preserving the rich folkloric traditions of Dakshina Kannada district. He praised the thousands of people from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi who have made Bengaluru their home and are contributing in various fields.
Reaffirming the government’s full support for organizing the Kambala Games in Bengaluru, Shivakumar encouraged them to take advantage of the opportunities and face the challenges. In this program, former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MLA Ashwath Narayan, Congress MLA N.A. Harris, Ashok Kumar Rai as well as Kambala committee members Gurukiran, Prakash Shetty, Gunaranjan Shetty and Umesh Shetty were seen in presence.