Kambala

The Kambala, Kambla or Kambula is an annual buffalo race held in the southwestern Indian state of Karnataka.

Over 45 races are held annually in coastal Karnataka, including smaller remote villages such as Vandaru, Thonnase and Gulvadi.

Another interpretation of modern Kambala is derived from 'Kamba', a pole used for water spurt during race by buffalo pairs.

In villages such as Vandar(vandaru) in Udupi and Chordi(choradi) in Shivamogga, there is also a ritualistic aspect, as farmers race their buffaloes to give thanks to the deities for protecting them from diseases.

The buffaloes are decorated with coloured jhūls and head-pieces made of brass and silver (sometimes bearing the emblems of the sun and moon), and ropes which make a sort of bridle.

They performing full night with following all Panchamakara madya (Alcohol), māṃsa (Meat), matsya (Fish), mudrā (Gesture), maithuna (Sexual).

[14] Noted animal-rights activist Maneka Gandhi expressed concerns about the ill treatment of buffaloes during the race.

[14] In 2014, based on lawsuits filed by animal welfare organizations, the Supreme Court of India ordered a ban on Kambala.

Litigation continued but was resolved by the passage of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Bill, 2018, which then-President Ram Nath Kovind approved on 19 February 2018.