The contest of buffaloes is called “Kambala” or “Kambula” a sporting race in muddy water. Kambala (Buffalo race) is conducted in water filled paddy field. Coastal Karnataka (Tulunadu) 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.