Supreme Court's verdict cheers Kambala lovers

MANGALURU: The lovers and organizers of Kambala, the traditional rural sport of Coastal Karnataka, are elated following the Supreme Court's verdict on Kambala, Jallikattu, and bull-cart racing on Thursday.

The apex court's decision on Thursday upheld the law enacted by the Tamil Nadu government, permitting the bull-taming sport 'Jallikattu' in the state. The court also recognized the validity of similar legislation implemented by the governments of Maharashtra and Karnataka, allowing sports involving animals like Kambala and bull-cart racing.

Kambala, of Coastal Karnataka, an integral part of the region's culture, is traditionally held before the commencement of the second crop. (It was held between the Vrischika and Dhanu Sankranti (usually between November 15 and December 15). Traditionally the sport involved pairs of buffalos running on slush, with the fastest pair being declared the winner. Over time, modern Kambala introduced races between two pairs.

After the ban on Jallikattu, Kambala faced its own set of challenges. In response, the Karnataka government made amendments to the Animal Cruelty Act.  But due to the pending Supreme Court case, there lingered a constant fear of a ban on Kambala.

In light of the recent Supreme Court ruling, Kambala enthusiasts and organizers are overjoyed.

"Kambala is deeply rooted in our cultural heritage. The Supreme Court's verdict removes the apprehension of a ban on our cherished sport. We wholeheartedly welcome this decision, as the court has done justice to the aspirations of the people of Tulunadu," Mangaluru Kambala Committee president Capt Brijesh Chowta said.

"The Supreme Court dismissed the writ petition and upheld the Karnataka government's earlier amendment to the Animal Cruelty Act. This verdict has bestowed us with greater strength to continue organizing Kambala without any hurdles," he added.

Echoing the sentiment, MLAs Rajesh Naik U and Ashwath Narayan expressed their happiness via Twitter.