Kambala Is Identity of Tulunadu, Not Just a Rural Sport: B Y Vijayendra

Kambala Is Identity of Tulunadu, Not Just a Rural Sport: B Y Vijayendra

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Dec 28, 2025: BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra on Saturday said that Kambala is not merely a rural sport but a symbol of the cultural identity of Tulunadu. He was speaking at the ninth edition of the Ram–Lakshmana Jodukere Mangaluru Kambala held on Saturday evening.

Vijayendra said MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta has successfully taken Kambala, traditionally conducted in rural areas, to the urban landscape. He urged the government to extend financial assistance for Kambala events wherever they are held in the state, despite the sport being categorised as a folk tradition.

Recalling the tenure of former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, Vijayendra said a grant of ₹5 lakh was provided for every Kambala event held along the coastal belt, reflecting his special concern for the region. He termed it unfortunate that Kambala is being politicised under the present political system.

Welcoming the gathering and presenting the introductory address, Capt. Brijesh Chowta said the ‘Back to Ooru’ initiative aims to motivate people from the coastal region who are settled across the country and abroad to contribute socially to their native place.

Prakash Shetty, honorary president of the Mangaluru Kambala Committee, presided over the programme. Nine entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions under the ‘Back to Ooru’ concept were felicitated on the occasion.

BJP Dakshina Kannada district president Satish Kumpala, former minister Pramod Madhwaraj, Leader of the Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, MLAs Bharath Shetty, Rajesh Naik, Bhagirathi Murulya, Harish Poonja and Gururaj Gantihole, along with entrepreneurs Shashidhara Shetty (Baroda–Mumbai), Santosh Shetty (Pune) and Kishore Puttur, were present.