23rd Koti–Chennaya Kambala inaugurated with traditional fervour in Moodubidire

Mangalore Today News Network

Moodubidire, Feb 1, 2026: The 23rd annual floodlit "Koti–Chennaya Jodukere Kambala" commenced on Saturday morning at the Veerarani Abbakka Cultural Village in Kadalakeri Nisargadhama, Ontikatte, under the leadership of MLA Umanath A. Kotyan.

The traditional buffalo race was inaugurated by Vedic scholar Ishwara Bhat, Administrative Trustee of the Alangaru Badagu Mahalingeshwara Temple, along with Fr. Melvin Noronha, parish priest of Alangaru Church, and Kuntadi Sudhir Hegde. 

Speaking on the occasion, Ishwara Bhat said that Kambala plays a significant role in fostering unity by transcending barriers of caste and religion. He extended his best wishes to the organisers, buffalo owners and runners, expressing hope for the smooth and flawless conduct of the event.

Kuladeepa M. of the Moodubidire Choutar Palace family presided over the programme. Prior to the inauguration, prasada and holy water from the Puttige, Alangaru, Mahammai, Hanuman temples of Moodubidire, Nagarakatte Garadi and the Ayyappa Temple were ceremonially sprinkled at the Kambala arena.

Kambala Committee President and MLA Umanath Kotyan, General Secretary Gunapala Kadamba, and other members of the organising committee were present.