Coalition of environmentalists,farmers’ groups,heritage experts,and Kannada organizations will gather in Mysuru Thursday to discuss Karnataka government's plan to include Kambala,traditional buffalo race,in this year's Dasara celebrations. Meet-up,organized by Parisarakkagi Naavu,set for 3:30 p.m. at Jaladarshini Guest House.
Concerns are rising over what introducing Kambala could mean for Mysuru Dasara,a festival rich in history and cultural weight. Parashurame Gowda,General Secretary of Parisarakkagi Naavu,stressed the need to preserve festival's unique character. He argued non-indigenous events might erode Mysuru Dasara's globally recognized cultural identity .
Environmental issues are another sticking point . Critics say Kambala could mean tree felling,major financial outlay on infrastructure for spectators. Costs could hit crores of rupees,raising questions about sustainability of adding this to festival .
Expected at meeting: Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha State President Badagalapura Nagendra,retired Major General Sudhir Vombatkere,historian Prof . N.S. Rangaraju,others. Organizers urge citizens to join discussion,calling it a chance to protect Mysuru's environment and cultural heritage while keeping festival's unique identity intact. Will they come together…?
