Karkala MLA V. Sunil Kumar on Thursday urged the State government to hold discussions with stakeholders, particularly Kambala organisers and owners of buffalo bulls, before deciding to organise Kambala during the Dasara celebrations in Mysuru.

In a statement, Mr. Kumar said he had learnt that the government would spend close to ₹8 crore to hold Mysuru Kambala, while the present government has been providing a mere ₹2.5 lakh for each Kambala organised annually in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

The government should first announce financial assistance of ₹25 lakh for each of the 20 Kambalas organised in the coastal districts before organising Mysuru Kambala. Then, the glory of the event would be enhanced. The government should create an environment with local participation so that people from across the State could witness Kambala on the coast, he said.

Mr. Kumar said Kambala is a cultural sport of the coast. It has its own history and local charm. Not only do the language, culture, art, and rituals vary from region to region, but so does their attractiveness and appreciation.

Therefore, while taking the sport of the coast to Mysuru for the Dasara festival, it is essential to consider its overall impact. Before the government discusses with people’s representatives whether to hold Kambala in Mysuru, it is better to consult Kambala organisers and owners of the pavilions on the coast and then take a decision.

Published - July 16, 2026 07:14 pm IST