Mounesh Vishwakarma
Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal
Bantwal, Nov 23: In a significant boost to the traditional rural sport of Kambala, Kodange near Siddakatte witnessed the grand inauguration of the 2nd edition of the Veera-Vikram Jodukare Kambala on Saturday, November 23.
The event, which has gained recognition at the international level, was inaugurated by Prakash Acharya, the chief priest of the Poonja Kshetra, who emphasised the growing prominence of the Kambala sport, originally started by local farmers for entertainment.
Speaking at the event, Prakash Acharya expressed pride in the way Kambala has transcended regional boundaries to earn global recognition, showcasing the cultural heritage and sporting spirit of the rural community. He lauded the efforts of the local organisers and participants in preserving and promoting the sport.
The ceremony saw a number of dignitaries in attendance, including Asranna Krishna Prasad Acharya, who offered blessings for the event. Guttinaar Jayaram Shetty, the administrative head of Kudumburuguttu Temple, presided over the function. MLA Rajesh U Naik, Elias Sanctis, general secretary of the Shivanagha Kambala Committee, and Ratnakumar Chouta, president of the Siddakatte Milk Producers Cooperative Society, were among the notable guests who graced the occasion.
Other prominent attendees included Dr Prabhachandra Jain, senior doctor from Siddakatte, local businessman Santosh Kumar Rai, and several social and cultural figures from the region. The event also attracted participation from various Kambala enthusiasts and supporters, showcasing the widespread enthusiasm for the traditional sport.
Special milestone
A notable feature of this year’s Kambala was the historic achievement of hosting three Kambalas in the same season, with the current event being the first. This accomplishment reflects the growing popularity of Kambala and its significance in the rural cultural landscape.
The Kambala festivities in Kodange have not only highlighted the vitality of traditional sports but also reinforced the community’s commitment to preserving their heritage while gaining wider recognition at the national and international levels.