In Mysuru, coalition of farmers,environmentalists and heritage advocates is rallying against Kambala,traditional buffalo race,planned during upcoming Dasara festival. Group met recently,forming an action committee to organize protests.
Badagalapura Nagendra of Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha slammed decision to add Kambala to festivities . He stressed race is cultural hallmark of coastal region,shouldn't be commercialized in Mysuru. He said it would undermine festival's integrity.
Heritage expert N.S. Rangaraju agreed,noting Kambala was never part of Dasara's historical celebrations,dating back to Krishnadevaraya's reign. Why introduce it now? He argued it would detract from festival's dignity and grandeur.
Environmental activist Bhanu Mohan raised alarm over neglecting local art forms,artists while promoting event from elsewhere. He urged focus on preserving Mysuru's cultural identity,not adopting outside influences.
Activist Banu Prashanth from Parisarakkaagi Naavu warned that allowing Kambala might set precedent for other controversial events like Jallikattu,cockfighting. He insisted Kambala should not happen in Mysuru,citing risks to local traditions .
Parashurame Gowda,general secretary of Parisarakkaagi Naavu, pointed to drought conditions affecting state,with reservoir water levels dropping. He argued simpler Dasara is better than lavish event needing lots of water for slush tracks.
Gowda urged citizens,groups dedicated to preserving Mysuru’s heritage and environment to unite against Kambala. He warned preparations would not only mean cutting down trees but also using large amounts of water.
Support echoed by farmers' leader Manju Kiran,while Major General (Retd.) S.G. Vombatkere emphasized urgency of stopping Kambala preparations. Meeting drew community leaders,educators,activists,all opposing proposed event.
As Dasara festival nears,coalition's efforts show broader concern for Mysuru's cultural heritage,environmental issues,as they gear up to fight planned Kambala inclusion…
