The Mysuru Dasara Utsava Samiti's upcoming Kambala event has seen an overwhelming response, with over 100 buffalo pairs eager to compete. New jockey regulations and rigorous training camps have been announced for the 2026-27 season.
- Over 100 pairs of buffaloes are interested in the Mysuru Kambala event.
- The 2026-27 coastal season kicks off on November 7 across 27 locations.
- New restrictions limit jockeys to one pair per race category.
- 180 young jockeys will undergo specialized swimming and fitness training.
The traditional slush track buffalo race, known as Kambala, is set to witness a massive surge in participation. Belapu Deviprasad Shetty, President of the Karnataka State Kambala Association, announced that more than 100 pairs of buffaloes have expressed their willingness to participate in the event tentatively scheduled for October 18 and 19 by the Mysuru Dasara Utsava Samiti.
While the enthusiasm is high, the association is awaiting an official invitation from the Samiti to finalize the logistics. A joint meeting will soon be held to determine the exact number of participating pairs and the overall framework of the event.
New Regulations and Jockey Preparation
In a bid to ensure fairness and high standards of competition, General Secretary Vijayakumar Kanginamane revealed a significant rule change. Starting from the 2026-27 season in the coastal belt, a jockey will be permitted to handle only one pair of buffaloes in each of the four categories: naegilu hiriya, naegilu kiriya, hagga hiriya, and hagga kiriya. However, family-owned pairs in separate categories will be treated as distinct entries (A and B), allowing a single jockey to manage both.
To prepare the athletes, a comprehensive training program has been scheduled. On September 12 and 13, approximately 180 jockeys (aged 18-25) will undergo swimming training in Karkala. This will be followed by a rigorous camp from September 16 to 26 at the Miyar kambala track, focusing on buffalo handling, yoga, and physical conditioning.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that integrating Kambala into the Mysuru Dasara celebrations elevates the sport from a regional ritual to a mainstream cultural spectacle. This transition is crucial for maintaining the interest of the younger generation in agrarian traditions while boosting tourism in the state.
"Kambala is not just a race; it is a symphony of strength and synchronization between the farmer and his livestock."
Looking ahead, the coastal region's Kambala season will officially begin on November 7, 2026, with 27 events planned across the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Naegilu Hiriya | Senior Category (with Plough) |
| Naegilu Kiriya | Junior Category (with Plough) |
| Hagga Hiriya | Senior Category (with Reins) |
| Hagga Kiriya | Junior Category (with Reins) |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the Mysuru Kambala expected to take place?
It is tentatively scheduled for October 18 and 19.
2. What is the new rule for jockeys?
Jockeys are now restricted to handling only one pair of buffaloes per race category to ensure fair competition.
