In November 2016, following the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India, the Karnataka High Court passed an interim order banning all Buffalo races in Karnataka on the premise that it involved animal cruelty. This order affected the popular sport of Dakshina Kannada – the Kambala. It also affected the economy, employment and importantly the pride of State’s people. Bowing to the intense public clamour from the coastal belt of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi district, the Karnataka assembly on the 13th of February 2017 passed a bill to amend The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. This even as the Karnataka High Court on January 31 refused to revoke its November 2016 of banning the traditional sport. Harsha Raj Gatty retraces the history and looks forward to an eventful Kambala this year.
At any given time these days, the 47-year old Devendra Kotian can be found employed as a coolie labourer at his neighboring farmland or around the village of Palimar in the Udupi district. Kotian’s daily chores include chopping logs, tillage, feeding farm animals or any odd jobs that is directed by his employer. For locals at Palimar however it’s an oddsight, since for over 20 years - they are used to seeing Kotian preparing for Kambala during this period/ season (between November-March). Residents of the Palimar village claim that crowds used to swell during the weekend around the perimeter walls wherein Devendra Kotian and his buffaloes prepare on the run-up to the race.
The high protein diet of badam and pista, the buffaloes oil massage, traditional exercise by the riders – drew attention of curious onlookers. “Inspired by Devendra’s sporting spirit - several youngsters have not taken to drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or have given-up their former habits. We are grateful for Devendra and riders like him for attracting youngsters in rural areas into fitness activities and take-up either Kambala or other sports,” says Ganesh Narayan Devadiga, a close supporter of Devendra Kotian who often lends his buffaloes to the rider.
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