Opposition to Kambala at Mysuru Dasara gathers steam

Published 11 July 2026 · local

The State government’s proposal to organise Kambala, the traditional buffalo race of coastal Karnataka, as a new attraction during this year’s Mysuru Dasara festivities has

The State government’s proposal to organise Kambala, the traditional buffalo race of coastal Karnataka, as a new attraction during this year’s Mysuru Dasara festivities has triggered a political controversy, with Opposition leaders urging the government to drop the plan to preserve the festival’s heritage and cultural identity. The Opposition argues that Mysuru Dasara has a distinct historical legacy, royal tradition and cultural significance, while Kambala represents the unique agrarian and religious traditions of coastal Karnataka. Though both are celebrated cultural traditions of the State, they contend that each should remain rooted in its own geographical and cultural setting. Addressing reporters in Mysuru on Saturday, State BJP president B.Y. Vijayendra said Mysuru Dasara has its own identity and legacy, which the government must protect.

He said Mysuru MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar had already opposed the proposal and conveyed his views to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during the Dasara High Power Committee meeting held in Bengaluru. The scion of the erstwhile Mysuru royal family has urged the Chief Minister to reconsider the decision, he added. “Certain festivals and traditions are unique to particular regions. Just as Mysuru Dasara cannot be shifted to another place, Kambala too belongs to the coastal region. We must preserve the sanctity of these traditions. Any new programme should be discussed thoroughly before a decision is taken. The government should not make it a prestige issue and must withdraw the proposal to organise Kambala during Mysuru Dasara,” Mr. Vijayendra said. At the same time, he clarified that the BJP would extend full support if the government decided to organise Kambala on a grand scale in Dakshina Kannada or other coastal districts.

Speaking separately, Mr. Wadiyar reiterated that he had urged the Chief Minister to reconsider the proposal. While expressing his respect for the Kambala tradition, he noted that he had personally attended the event in the coastal region after being invited. “If the government wants to introduce Kambala merely as a new attraction during Dasara, I do not think it is necessary. I have conveyed my opinion, and it is now for the Chief Minister to take a decision,” he said. Kumaraswamy also opposes proposal Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy also opposed the proposal, saying there was no need to include Kambala in Mysuru Dasara. In a post on X, he said Mysuru Dasara is renowned for its unique identity, rich heritage and centuries-old traditions, and any attempt to alter its character should be avoided.