The recent refusal of a Kambala jockey, widely compared to world record holder Usain Bolt after a viral video showcased his ability to cover 100 metres in 9.55 seconds, to participate in athletic trials has drawn attention to the traditional buffalo race. This event is deeply rooted in the culture of coastal Karnataka and brings its own share of controversy due to accusations of animal cruelty.
The Tradition of Kambala
Kambala is a customary buffalo race that takes place from November to March in the paddy fields of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, located along the coast of Karnataka. These fields are filled with slush and mud, setting a unique arena for the competition. Historically backed by local Tuluva landlords and households, this sport is a significant cultural expression of the Tuluva people, who are native to Southern India. The contest involves racers trying to control their buffaloes by firmly holding their reins and whipping them.
In its original form, Kambala was non-competitive, with buffalo pairs racing one after another in the paddy fields. It also stood as an act of gratitude to gods for safeguarding the animals from diseases.
Concerns over Animal Cruelty
As much as it is a cultural spectacle, Kambala has been under scrutiny from animal activists. They argue that the competition involves acts of cruelty on animals which are not biologically designed for racing. According to these activists, the fear of being beaten compels the buffaloes to participate in the race, which they believe flouts the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960. This law safeguards animals from practices that unleash unnecessary pain, amounting to cruelty.
Legal Background
On May 7, 2014, the Supreme Court of India banned traditional sports such as Jallikattu, bullock-cart races, and Kambala events. The judgement reinforced the Indian Constitution along with legislation under the PCA Act, 1960 that bestows animals with the basic right to be treated with compassion and dignity and to be exempt from needless pain and suffering.
However, an amendment in 2017 to the PCA, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance, permitted the organisation of Kambala events given measures are implemented to prevent cruelty to the participating buffaloes.
Jallikattu: A Similar Controversial Sport
Jallikattu, akin to Kambala, is a traditional bull-taming event held annually during the Pongal harvest festival in Tamil Nadu. The sport tests the bravery of participants, requiring them to jump on a running bull, hold onto its hump, and try to keep balance without falling or injuring themselves. Just like Kambala, this sport too has faced criticism for its treatment of animals.
