Debate Grows Over Proposal to Include Kambala in Mysuru Dasara Celebrations

A proposal to include the traditional Kambala buffalo race as part of the world famous Mysuru Dasara celebrations has triggered an intense debate across Karnataka. The suggestion has drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, cultural representatives, and members of the Mysuru royal family, turning the issue into a major public discussion.

The proposal was reportedly presented during the Dasara high level preparatory meeting held on July 10 under the leadership of Puttur MLA Ashok Rai. While supporters believe the move would showcase Karnataka’s diverse cultural traditions, critics argue that Mysuru Dasara should retain its distinct historical identity.

Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy has openly opposed the proposal and criticized the state government’s decision through a series of posts on social media. He said Mysuru Dasara has a unique cultural and spiritual legacy that should not be altered by introducing events traditionally associated with other regions. According to him, Kambala is deeply connected to the coastal districts, where it is celebrated amid a natural landscape that forms an essential part of its identity.

Kumaraswamy further stated that preserving the individuality of both Mysuru Dasara and Kambala is important. He argued that shifting the event away from its traditional setting could affect its cultural significance and may also hurt the sentiments of people from both Mysuru and the coastal region.

Mysuru Kodagu Member of Parliament Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar also voiced his reservations during the preparatory meeting. He said Dasara and Kambala represent different cultural traditions and should not be merged simply to create a new attraction. While acknowledging the importance of Kambala as a respected cultural sport, he questioned the need to include it in the Dasara festival and suggested that efforts should instead focus on strengthening the existing celebrations.

The proposal, however, has received strong support from Karnataka State Kambala Association President Deviprasad Shetty. Speaking to the media in Udupi, he said Kambala is not just a cultural event of the coastal belt but a heritage sport that represents the entire state. He pointed out that other coastal art forms such as Yakshagana and Kola have previously been showcased in Mysuru and were well received by audiences.

Shetty also said Kambala has earned international recognition and believes its inclusion in Dasara would help promote Karnataka’s cultural diversity. He added that if funding becomes a concern for the Mysuru administration, the association is prepared to seek support from donors to help organize the event.

The issue has also divided political opinion. Karnataka BJP President B Y Vijayendra said Kambala should continue to be celebrated in its traditional coastal setting and that the government should preserve the uniqueness of both festivals instead of combining them. On the other hand, Health Minister U T Khader has expressed support for the government’s proposal, indicating that the discussion remains open within the state administration.

As opinions continue to differ, the final decision on whether Kambala will become part of Mysuru Dasara is yet to be announced. The debate has highlighted the broader question of how Karnataka can celebrate its diverse traditions while preserving the distinct identity of its historic cultural festivals.