Bengaluru, July 11: A controversy has erupted regarding the proposal to include the traditional coastal sport ‘Kambala’ in the famous Mysore Dasara festival organized by the Karnataka government. Disagreements have surfaced between the state government and the Mysore royal family over this issue.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar indicated that the government is considering adding new cultural programs during the Dasara celebrations. However, the Mysore royal family, BJP leaders, and several social organizations have opposed this move. They argue that it could affect the traditional identity and heritage of Mysore Dasara.
Despite drought-like conditions, the state government has announced that this year’s ‘Nada Habba Dasara-2026’ will be celebrated grandly for 11 days. The proposal to include the traditional buffalo racing sport ‘Kambala’ from coastal Karnataka has faced backlash. Following the success of the film ‘Kantara Chapter-1’, this traditional sport has gained popularity nationwide.
In response to the proposal on Saturday, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, a member of the Mysore royal family and BJP MP, stated that he clearly opposed the proposal during a high-level committee meeting.
Yaduveer remarked, “I have explicitly opposed the proposal to include Kambala in the meeting. Dasara has its own cultural identity, while Kambala is a different tradition. The sentiments of the people of Mysore echo this. Organizing Kambala during Dasara would go against their wishes.”
He further accused the Congress government of repeatedly ignoring public sentiments.
He stated, “The government has made several decisions against the feelings of the people. We are not against the Kambala sport. We only say that Kambala should not be part of the Mysore Dasara celebrations.”
In response to reports supporting this proposal from Congress MLA Ashok Rai, Yaduveer mentioned that the MLA had neither discussed the matter with him nor needed to provide any clarification.
He added, “He does not need to explain anything to me. It would be better if they focus on organizing the existing Dasara programs more effectively. Dasara should be celebrated with its traditional identity, preserving its customs.”
Yaduveer also urged the government to abolish the ‘pass system’ for Dasara events, stating that it distracts from the true essence of the festival.
He said, “I have requested the government to completely remove the ‘pass’ system. People spend more time obtaining passes than enjoying the celebrations. Dasara should not only be grand but also celebrated in accordance with its traditions and purposes, ensuring that farmers and common people do not face any difficulties.”
Former BJP MP Pratap Simha emphasized that the government should not go against the sentiments of the Mysore royal family. He stated that Dasara is a traditional and cultural festival, and its customs and rituals should be respected.
When asked about the proposed changes for this year’s Dasara celebrations, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar mentioned that the government is considering all suggestions before making a final decision.
He said, “We will make decisions keeping in mind all the traditions and customs of the state. We have received several suggestions, and all aspects will be considered before making a final decision. Suggestions include organizing programs with international-level singers, conducting sports competitions, and celebrating the festival according to Hindu traditions. This decision will not be made solely by D.K. Shivakumar; it will be finalized after discussions with all stakeholders.”
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