Mangaluru: Karkala MLA and former minister V Sunil Kumar has urged the govt to consult coastal kambala organisers and buffalo owners before deciding on hosting the traditional buffalo race at Mysuru Dasara.Reacting to reports, the BJP leader said the issue must be evaluated from all perspectives.“Kambala is a cultural sport unique to the coastal region, boasting its own rich history and local charm,” Kumar noted. He emphasised that art, culture, language and traditions vary across regions, influencing their appeal and appreciation.“When taking a purely coastal sport to Mysuru for Dasara, it is crucial to assess the overall impact it will have. Therefore, before the govt discusses this with Mysuru’s elected representatives, it would be wise to first hold consultations with the kambala organisers and buffalo owners from the coast,” he said.The former minister also expressed shock over reports that the govt is planning to spend approximately Rs 8 crore to host kambala during Dasara.“I was surprised to hear this information. Since this govt came to power, it has hesitated to allocate even Rs 2.5 lakh each for the traditional kambalas held in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. We have even raised this issue in the Assembly across party lines,” he said.Kumar urged the govt to prioritise native events by allocating Rs 25 lakh each to 20 district-level kambalas.“Providing substantial funding locally will further enhance the grandeur of these traditional events. The govt should focus on building an ecosystem with local participation that attracts tourists from all over the state to the coastal districts to witness kambala,” he said, and urged the govt to convene a meeting with coastal stakeholders.
